Breaking Barriers with Assistive Technology: Hands-Free Access Through Meta AI Glasses and Be My Eyes
At Lighthouse for the Blind of the Palm Beaches, our Assistive Technology (AT) Programs are designed with one goal in mind: empowerment through innovation. For individuals with visual impairments, technology can mean the difference between dependence and independence—helping clients achieve personal, vocational, and recreational goals with greater ease. Our AT training team provides demonstrations, assessments, and one-on-one instruction on the latest tools, giving participants the confidence to use both mainstream and specialized devices.
Partnering with Keiser University: A Hands-On Experience
Last month, we had the privilege of welcoming students from the Keiser University Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program into one of our Meta AI training sessions. The visit was more than just an observation—it was a collaboration in action. OTA students saw firsthand how emerging tools like Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses, integrated with Be My Eyes, are transforming daily life for individuals with low vision.
Students even assisted Lighthouse participants in exploring the technology, gaining an appreciation for both the challenges and opportunities that come with vision loss. For Lighthouse clients, it was an empowering moment to share their journey. For future occupational therapy professionals, it was an invaluable experience in understanding how wearable AI and assistive technology create real independence.
Why Hands-Free Matters
Traditional smartphone apps, even accessibility-focused ones, require at least one hand—and often two—to operate. For people with vision loss, that presents challenges when mobility, multitasking, or independence is the priority. Now, thanks to extensive co-development between Be My Eyes and Meta, users can connect to a volunteer using just their voice.
With a simple command, Meta AI Glasses activate the Be My Eyes app, opening a live connection with a sighted volunteer who can “see through” the glasses’ camera and provide real-time guidance via open-ear speakers. This seamless experience transforms daily tasks like reading signs, navigating a store, or identifying items into stress-free moments of independence.
Game-Changing Accessibility in Action
The combination of Meta AI Glasses and Be My Eyes doesn’t just improve convenience—it has the potential to reshape daily living for millions.
- Immediate visual assistance: Call a volunteer hands-free, anytime, anywhere.
- Switch between devices: Start a call on your smartphone for a wide-angle view, then toggle to your glasses for mobility and hands-free use.
- Expand independence: Whether you’re cooking, traveling, or working, you can receive guidance without putting life on pause.
According to the World Health Organization, at least 2.2 billion people worldwide have some form of vision impairment, and over 20 million Americans live with vision loss (CDC, 2023). Tools like these are not just conveniences—they’re lifelines that expand opportunity, safety, and independence.
The Lighthouse Advantage
At Lighthouse, we go beyond introducing devices—we teach people how to integrate them into their daily lives. Our Assistive Technology Programs include:
- Hands-on training with devices like Meta AI Glasses, screen readers, magnification tools, and smart home technology.
- Customized evaluations to ensure technology matches each client’s goals, whether they’re preparing for a new career, learning to manage their home independently, or pursuing hobbies.
- Community partnerships with universities, service providers, and employers to strengthen understanding of accessibility needs.
By opening our doors to groups like Keiser University’s OTA program, Lighthouse is also educating the next generation of professionals—and ensuring accessibility and inclusion are part of their careers from the very beginning.
Looking Ahead
The future of accessibility is unfolding before our eyes, and innovations like Be My Eyes on Meta AI Glasses are just the beginning. At Lighthouse, we’re proud to lead the way by introducing our clients to these powerful tools, partnering with community institutions, and providing the training to use them effectively.
Technology will continue to evolve, but one thing remains constant: our belief that every individual deserves the tools, skills, and confidence to live a full and independent life.
