MaxiAids Does It Again!!! Breaks $100 Price Point on Money Talks Talking Money Identifier

For over 23 years, MaxiAids Products for Independent Living http://www.maxiaids.com/ has been setting the industry standard as a supplier of items for those with special needs. Now they have once again taken the lead in making products more affordable by reducing the price of the popular Money Talks Talking Money Identifier to only $99.95.

“This is a very important step for us,” explains Elliot Zaretsky, MaxiAids’ founder and president, “because this new low price will make it possible for more members of the blind and visually impaired community to afford them.” Breaking the $100 price point is a great accomplishment, as in the past money identifiers sold for $250 and up.

This price reduction demonstrates how seriously Mr. Zaretsky and his staff take their role as industry leaders. “We are committed to finding ways to get the best quality products into the hands of those in the special needs community who need them,” says Mr. Zaretsky.

To order Money Talks, visit http://www.maxiaids.com/ or call 1-800-522-6294.

MaxiAids is Designated a Master Distributor of Keys-U-See Large Print Keyboards

MaxiAids Products for Independent Living (http://www.maxiaids.com/) today announced that it has been designated a Master Distributor of Keys-U-See Large Print Keyboards for those with low vision. “We’re proud to have been chosen as the leader in the industry,” said Elliot Zaretsky. “It gives us another means of doing what we do best – getting more of the highest quality products into the hands of the people that need them.”

Keys-U-See Keyboards feature big, bold characters that are 430% larger than standard keys. They are perfect for anybody who has a hard time seeing the letters on their computer keyboards.

MaxiAids is already known throughout the low vision community for its large selection and the low prices it provides to government agencies, schools and direct to low vision customers. Now, with this new designation, MaxiAids is also authorized to sell Keys-U-See wholesale to re-sellers.

Visit http://www.maxiaids.com/ or call 1-800-522-6294 for more information.

MaxiAids Web-A-Thon to Benefit The Miami Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired

MaxiAids Products for Independent Living www.MaxiAids.com is proud to announce that we will be supporting The Miami Lighthouse for the Blind with a 24-Hour Web-A-Thon. We have committed to donate to the Lighthouse a portion of the proceeds of web purchases made all day long (from 12:00am to 11:59pm) on Thursday, November 12.

This is a great opportunity for MaxiAids and it’s many loyal customers to team up and contribute to a truly worthy cause. Since 1931, The Miami Lighthouse has been a source of support for those who are blind and visually impaired. Now, we have a chance to give back to this organization that has given so much to so many people.

So, mark your calendar and start making a shopping list. Visit www.MaxiAids.com to browse our huge variety of products (around 7,000 items). Most importantly, be sure to visit us on Thursday, November 12. And remember that with each purchase you make, you are also helping those at Miami Lighthouse continue to serve the Blind and Visually Impaired community.

The Low Vision Clock You Can Set Using Only Your Voice

Setting the time and alarm has never been easier – especially for those with low vision who may have difficulty seeing the small buttons on clocks! The Slick Voice Recognition Alarm Clock Radio available at www.MaxiAids.com will react appropriately and accurately to your voice commands.

Simply speak the time and alarm time, and the built-in Voice Recognition technology will “understand” your words and respond by displaying the time you say on the clock. In addition, you can say “radio” or “buzzer” to choose the sound you wake up to. Item #700001. Your Price: $39.99

See the Voice Recognition Clock Radio or visit www.MaxiAids.com for more low vision products.

Only at MaxiAids: Marks Script Guide & Sewell Raised Line Drawing Kit

To Our Friends and Loyal Customers…

For more than 23 years, MaxiAids Products for Independent Living has been at the forefront of products that help those in the visually impaired community live more active, independent lives. Over that time, we have developed many innovative items, and have purchased the rights to important items such as the Marks Script Guide and the Sewell Raised Line Drawing Kit to ensure that these items will always be available to those who need them.

We remain committed to serving those with special needs and to always providing our customers with the greatest variety of products available anywhere at the lowest prices. For more information or to order the Marks Script Guide or the Sewell Raised Line Drawing Kit, which are available only at MaxiAids, please call 1-800-522-6294 or visit us at http://www.maxiaids.com/

MaxiAids Offers eClipse Scanner/Reader for the Blind and Those with Low Vision

eClipseScan is a simple scanning and reading workstation that creates DAISY talking books for personal use. It also offers a Talking Music CD and Media Player that supports MP3, Music format, WMA, and WAV CDs. You can hook it up to your existing TV (using VGA or S-Video) for low vision features and video playback. All functions operate via a simple keypad and self-voicing wizard menu system.

Packed with the power of a desktop PC but is much easier to use, the eClipse is perfect for the Non-PC user and those who want a workstation dedicated to reading that also provides additional entertainment functions. It offers many features that the blind, visually impaired and those with low vision will find useful. Compatible with the Victor Stream, Plextalk Pocket, MP3 and DAISY CD Players. Weight: 19 lbs. Dimensions: 12 inches x 22 inches x 4 inches. Item #803257. Price: $1,995.00

Get it or view more products for the blind and those with low vision at http://www.maxiaids.com/

Steady Guide Finger Rests from MaxiAids: Easier Typing for Those with Parkinson’s, Dexterity Issues and Low Vision

Keep a steady hand while typing, using a calculator or dialing the telephone! Simply place Steady Guide Finger Rests on the keys. The concave (indented) shape of the finger rest helps hold your fingers in place and keep them from slipping off the keys. You’ll enjoy being able to work more easily, accurately and efficiently.

Steady Guide Finger Rests are the perfect inexpensive assistive aid for those with Parkinson’s and dexterity challenges, as well as for the blind and those with low vision. Put one finger rest on each key, or use them only at strategic reference points to mark specific keys, based on your individual needs. Self-adhesive backing - just peel and stick. ½” Diameter. Clear. Package of 30. Item #252718. Price: $4.95

Click on Steady Guide to order, or visit www.MaxiAids.com to see thousands of products for those with special needs.

Dogs for the Deaf: Rescuing and Training Dogs to Serve the Deaf

I came across Dogs for the Deaf and found it interesting and worth reading. They’re a nonprofit operating out of Oregon that rescues dogs and trains them to help deaf individuals live more independently.

Their blog tells about success stories where dogs were placed in homes of those who could benefit from hearing. Before placement in the homes, the Hearing Dogs are trained to alert to everyday sounds such as a fire/smoke alarms, telephones, door knocks, doorbells, oven timers and alarm clocks.

Scroll to the bottom and read the section called “Unleashing the possibilities” which explains what they do at Dogs for the Deaf. Dogs are placed not only with deaf, but with in other special needs circumstances, as well. It’s interesting and inspiring.

Back in Time… Basic Black Retro Phone Takes You Back… Only With a Volume Boost for the Hearing Impaired

Close your eyes and imagine a basic black office phone from the 1970’s. Can you see it? This Retro Phone, now available at www.MaxiAids.com, will likely give you that feeling (if you’re old enough to remember the look.) Those who appreciate retro style will love it. But beyond the basic features the original version offered, this phone is outfitted with the hearing impaired in mind.

This phone has the look of a classic desk phone combined with great features for the hard of hearing, noisy environments, or anyone wanting a powerful 40dB handset volume and a visual ring indicator to signal incoming calls. This phone is hearing aid compatible and offers selectable ringer volume and an illuminated keypad.

Other convenience features include: 13-number memory (3 emergency one-touch plus 10 two-touch); Last number redial; Pause, flash and mute buttons. For desk use only (not wall mountable.) Black. One Year Manufacturer's Warranty.

Check out the Retro Phone or the many other choices at www.MaxiAids.com

Multi-Position Suction Cup Grab Bar Helps Prevent Dangerous Slips and Falls in the Bath

Stay safe in the bathtub and shower! The unique 3-suction cup design of the Multi-Position Suction Cup Grab Bar from Drive sets it apart from other grab bars, providing maximum stability and versatility. The center section swivels, allowing for 180 degrees of movement to accommodate all kinds of showers and tubs. This range of motion also allows it to be positioned at a wide range of angles, giving the user the ability to position it in the best position to meet their individual needs.

Release levers make installing and removing the suction cup grab bar quick and easy - no holes, screws or tools required. Just push the vacuum lever down to ensure a secure grip to any flat surface. Red/green color indicators show you whether you have a safe, secure suction, or if you need to re-attach the grab bar. Item #1513084. Cost: $34.95.

See the Multi-Position Suction Cup Grab Bar or visit www.MaxiAids.com to see more products to support your safe, healthy and active lifestyle.

Save the Date: MaxiAids Exhibiting at NYSAER Conference

Mark your calendar! MaxiAids will be exhibiting products for the blind and visually impaired at the NYSAER (Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired) Conference on October 26 in Albany, NY.

Among the products being shown (and available for purchase) are a variety of Braille and talking items, including talking clocks and Braille & talking watches, as well as Money Talks, the talking money identifier, and the VoiLa Voice Labelling System. We look forward to seeing you there!

Visit the NYSAER website for more conference information. Go to www.MaxiAids.com to see the largest available assortment of products for the blind, visually impaired and low vision, as well as those with special needs.

MaxiAids New Product Profile: Med-E-Lert Automatic Pill Dispenser Gives You the Right Pills at the Right Time

The Med-E-Lert Automatic Pill Dispenser, available at www.MaxiAids.com, helps to ensure that medications are taken properly and on time. Schedule up to 4 daily doses with the built-in programmable timer. Med-E-Lert will dispense the right dosage of the right pills at the right time. It was designed especially for the elderly, Alzheimer’s patients, those with low vision and patients with complicated daily medical regimes.

The Med-E-Lert can be loaded with medications for one to two weeks, depending on the number of doses per day. Only the designated dose is available. A loud beeping signal (3 tone settings) sounds when it is time to take the medication. If the medication is not taken (skipping of doses), it is kept safe in the locked Med-E-Lert.

Get more information about Med-E-Lert or visit www.MaxiAids.com to see thousands of products for those with low vision and other special needs.

Maxi-Aids Exhibiting Talking Products at American Council of the Blind Convention

MaxiAids is proud to be participating the the annual convention of the American Council of the Blind of New York (ACBNY) which is being held in Buffalo, New York from Thursday, October 15 through Sunday, Occtober 18. We will have numerous items for the blind and visually impaired on display and available for purchase, highlighted by a selection of talking watches, talking clocks and braille items, as well as the VoiLa Voiced Label System.

The convention is taking place at the Holiday Inn Buffalo Airport at 4600 Genesee Street, Cheektowaga, NY 14225. Exhibit hall hours are on Friday from 2:00 until 8:00pm and on Saturday from 9:00am to 3:00pm.

Come down and visit us if you're in the area. Or go to www.MaxiAids.com to view a variety of items for the blind and visually impaired, as well as other special needs groups.

MaxiAids New Product Update: Fire Blanket and Protective Case

Get the ultimate in fire protection! A new dense Fire Blanket measuring 62” X 80 “ is now available from MaxiAids Products for Independent Living. It's made of gray heat-resistant material that's light in weight but dense and very effective. The generous size is designed to give maximum personal protection from fire and extreme heat. The cost is $49.99.

Also available from MaxiAids is a Protective Storage Bag for the fire blanket. It’s bright read and imprinted with the words: “FIRE BLANKET: Pull Loop to Open” to clearly mark it in case of an emergency. The cost of the bag is $42.99.

Click on Fire Blanket or Storage Bag to order these items. Visit www.MaxiAids.com to check out thousands of items for those with special needs.

Big Red Twist: Easy-to-Use Auxiliary Switch for Those with Visual, Cognitive or Physical Challenges

MaxiAids New Product Alert: The Big Red Twist features a large, colorful 5” diameter surface area that provides a large target for users for whom smaller switches are difficult to use. It’s ideal for students with visual, cognitive or physical requirements. An audible click signals the user that a cause-effect link has been made. With just a twist, switch tops can be removed and replaced with the color of your choice (Red, Blue, Yellow or Green) to suit your mood, style or unique vision needs.

Get the Big Red Twist or shop www.MaxiAids.com

You Can Set The Clock and Alarm Using Only Your Voice

Setting the time and alarm has never been easier – especially for those with low vision, the arthritic, or anyone who may have difficulty seeing or manipulating the small buttons on clocks! The Slick Voice Recognition Alarm Clock Radio will react appropriately and accurately to your voice commands. Simply speak the time and alarm time, and the built-in Voice Recognition technology will “understand” your words and respond by displaying the time you say on the clock. In addition, you can say “radio” or “buzzer” to choose the sound you wake up to.

The Slick Voice Recognition Alarm Clock Radio for Low Vision (item 700001) costs $39.99 at MaxiAids. Visit www.MaxiAids.com to see more products for those with low vision.

Med-E-Lert Automatic Pill Dispenser: Great for the Elderly and Those with Low Vision

The Med-E-Lert Automatic Pill Dispenser helps to ensure that medications are taken properly and on time. Schedule up to 4 daily doses with the built-in programmable timer. Med-E-Lert will dispense the right dosage of the right pills at the right time. It was designed especially for the elderly, Alzheimer’s patients, those with low vision and patients with complicated daily medical regimes.

The Med-E-Lert can be loaded with medications for one to two weeks, depending on the number of doses per day. Only the designated dose is available. A loud beeping signal (3 tone settings) sounds when it is time to take the medication. If the medication is not taken (skipping of doses), it is kept safe in the locked Med-E-Lert.

Visit www.MaxiAids.com to see more products for independent living.

Keep Your Home Clean and Your Family Healthy with the Verilux CleanWave UV-C Sanitizing Light Wand

Feel the confidence of knowing that your home is clean and allergen free! The Verilux CleanWave Sanitizing Light Wand uses advanced UV-C light to kill dust mites, viruses, bacteria and 99.9% of household germs. Plus, it uses no chemicals so allergy and disease-causing microbes are eliminated without leaving any chemical residue.

Its powerful and safe UV-C light delivers an odorless, chemical-free clean that is as good for you as it is for the environment. UV-C light naturally eliminates germs that are the common cause of colds, infections, asthma and allergic reactions, and sterilizes quickly and effectively without damaging delicate items. UV-C light allows hypoallergenic cleaning and chemical-free disinfection of kitchen surfaces, mattresses, bedding, utensils, sofas, children's toys, pet areas, computer keyboards and more.

The safe and easy-to-use Sanitizing Light Wand is rechargeable and features a built in timer, auto shut-off and silent operation. Long life UV-C bulb. 1-year limited warranty on wand (does not cover battery pack.) Includes wand, charging base and rechargeable batteries.

The Verilux CleanWave UV-C Sanitizing Wand is available at MaxiAids for $99.95. Visit www.MaxiAids.com for more products to help you and your family live a healthier, more active and more independent lifestyle.

Frio Insulin Cooling Wallet for Diabetics Keeps Insulin Cool up to 45 Hours

The FRÍO® Insulin Cooling Wallet offers Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM) sufferers the ultimate stylish accessory for the safe, convenient storage and transport of insulin. It provides a highly effective, low-cost means of keeping insulin at a safe temperature without the need for refrigeration.

FRÍO® wallets keep insulin safe for a minimum of 45 hours (lasts up to 5 times longer than an ice pack) - even in constant environmental temperatures of 100 degrees Fahrenheit! Keep one at home and make FRÍO® cooling packs part of your travel kit or emergency supply kit today - no more bulky, inconvenient ice packs or thermos flasks required ever again! You'll wonder what you ever did without one.

The principle is simple. To activate the wallet, immerse it in cold water for 5-15 minutes. Crystals contained in the panels of the wallet then expand into a gel, which remains cool for several days - relying on the process of evaporation for cooling. Then just towel dry the outside and it's ready to go!

Although activated by water, a feature of the product is that after towel-drying, the FRÍO® wallet is dry to the touch. The Cambrelle™ pouch we supply free of charge with each FRÍO® cooling wallet increases the wallet's efficiency and allows it to be carried safely in your pocket or a bag as required. Each item is re-usable and can be used either continuously or intermittently.

Click on the product name above for more information. Visit www.MaxiAids.com to see additional products to help diabetics live more active, independent lives.

Part of $9 Million Federal Grant Going to Research to Prevent Blindness

Scientists at the University of the Oklahoma Health Sciences Center have received more than $9 million in grants as part of the federal economic stimulus program.

"The stimulus funds provide a fantastic opportunity to expand or complete projects that will contribute to the health and well-being of our state and nation,” said Joseph J. Ferretti, senior vice president and provost of the OU Health Sciences Center.

In one of those projects benefitting from the new funding, James F. McGinnis is developing a way to use nanoparticles to fix natural defenses in the eye that have become defective. He hopes to prevent blindness from conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration and inherited retinal degeneration.

Read more: http://www.newsok.com/ou-health-researchers-win-9-million-in-federal-funds/article/3405315##ixzz0TAJcWIRk

Accessible PC’s: All-in-One, Touch Screen and Medical Grade Personal Computers Now Available at MaxiAids

A new line of all-in-one personal computers available at MaxiAids Products for Independent Living (www.MaxiAids.com) offer a number of convenience features, including space saving design and accessibility to those with special needs. In addition, a series of medical grade Touch Screen PC’s has a unique anti-bacterial coating that prevents the spread of dangerous germs.

On Zero Footprint models, the CPU (including the CD-Rom Drive) is actually built into the back of the keyboard, so no separate box is needed. This is an especially efficient choice for the blind computer user who, eliminating the need for a computer monitor, can have an entire PC system in one single piece – the keyboard.

The All-in-One 19-in. LCD PC helps you save space without sacrificing performance, plus offers a large, easy-to-see 19” LCD monitor that’s great for everyone, and will be especially appreciated by those with low vision. The All-in-One LCD PC, the most compact, yet powerful personal computer you’ve ever seen, combines a PC and an LCD monitor into one attractive, efficient and user-friendly package.

The All-in-One 19-in. LCD PC with TouchScreen helps you save space without sacrificing performance, plus offers a large, easy-to-see 19” LCD monitor with a touchscreen. You can display and use the on-screen keyboard as an alternative to the included wireless keyboard. Those with low vision will be sure to appreciate all that this system offers!

The Medical Grade All-in-One TouchScreen Personal Computer, ideal for hospitals and healthcare facilities, features a unique antibacterial plastic coating designed to prevent the spread of germs and create a healthier clinical environment for both patients and health care workers. Being dust and waterproof (its IP65 certified), it can be sprayed and wiped down without the risk of damaging the computer. As if that’s not enough, it’s also resistant against both alcohol and detergent. With these worries eliminated, medical personnel can focus more of their attention on the important task of patient care.

All models come in a variety of available pre-packaged configurations. Or, MaxiAids can custom-build a unit to meet your individual needs. All units use powerful, reliable Intel processors and feature Vista software, with a free upgrade to Windows 7 when it becomes available (scheduled for late October 2009).

Click on one of the above model names, or visit www.MaxiAids.com for more information.

October 4-10 is Fire Prevention Week

The week of October 4-10 being designated as Fire Prevention Week (and in fact this has been expanded out, with the entire month of October being called Fire Prevention Month. This is the time of year when fire departments remind us to put fresh batteries in our smoke detectors.

Don't have a detector? Maxi-Aids has a variety of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors available, including many models designed specifically for the deaf and hearing. Among the selection are the Kidde Combo Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Alarm with Strobe Light for a bright visual alert and the Silent Call Signature Series Smoke Detector that transmits to a vibrating receiver worn by the user or a vibrator placed under the pillow or mattress.

Visit www.MaxiAids.com to see more smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.