Managing Diabetes When You're Blind: Tools That Help

Self-managing type 2 diabetes is challenging at any time. When vision is significantly limited or absent — as it is for most adults with Alström Syndrome — the daily tasks of glucose checking, medication management, and food choices require accessible tools. Modern technology has made independent diabetes management more achievable than ever for adults with vision loss. This article covers the tools that work and how to access them.

Talking glucose meters

Glucose meters that audibly speak the result. Examples include Prodigy Voice and CareTouch Talking. Features to look for:

• Clear voice prompts
• Tactile buttons
• Test strip orientation features
• Readable result memory

These devices have become more affordable; some are covered by insurance.¹

Continuous glucose monitors with accessible apps

CGMs (Dexcom, Libre) measure glucose continuously through a sensor on the skin. The data stream feeds into a smartphone app. With smartphone screen readers (VoiceOver on iPhone, TalkBack on Android), CGM data is fully accessible.

For people with vision loss, CGMs are often more useful than fingerstick meters because:

• Continuous data without manual testing
• Trend information
• Customizable alarms (for low or high glucose)
• Integration with insulin pumps

Setting up CGM accessibility

• Pair CGM transmitter with smartphone
• Enable VoiceOver/TalkBack on phone
• Configure CGM app
• Set audio alarms
• Practice with the alarms before relying on them

Many adults with Alström use CGM as their primary glucose monitoring method.

Insulin pens with click-counters

Standard insulin pens click as the dose is dialed in. With practice, a person can count clicks to dial the correct dose. Some pens have particularly tactile clicks.

Insulin pens with audio doses

Some smart insulin pens (e.g., Companion Medical InPen, NovoPen 6/Echo Plus) connect to apps that announce the dose. Provides confidence in correct dosing.

Insulin pumps

Insulin pumps with audio menus and CGM integration support fully accessible diabetes management. Tandem t:slim X2, Omnipod 5, and Medtronic 770G/780G have varying levels of audio accessibility.

Tactile vial-and-syringe approach

For those using insulin vials and syringes, tactile loading guides (such as the BD Insulin Vial Stabilizer, Count-a-Dose) help with accurate measurement.

Practice with sighted assistance initially

When learning new insulin administration tools, practice with sighted assistance for the first weeks until the routine is automatic.

Carb counting is essential for many people with diabetes on insulin. Tools include:

• Apps with audio interfaces — MyFitnessPal, Calorie King with VoiceOver
• Talking food scales — for portion measurement
• Apps that scan barcodes and announce nutrition — Seeing AI, Aira
• Pre-portioned foods with reliable carb counts for consistency
• Habit-based portions — recipe routines that build up carb-counting confidence

A registered dietitian can help develop accessible carb-counting strategies.

Tactile pill organizers

Weekly organizers with raised tactile markers for days of the week. Available from low-vision specialty retailers.

Talking pill bottles

Some pharmacies offer talking prescription labels (Walgreens, CVS, Walmart in the US). The label announces the medication and dosing instructions.

Smart pill dispensers

Devices that dispense medications at set times with audio alerts. Useful for complex medication schedules.

Apps for medication tracking

Medisafe, MyMedSchedule, and others — accessible with screen readers.

Severe insulin resistance plus high insulin doses raises hypoglycemia risk. Specific accessibility considerations:

• CGM alarms — audible alerts before glucose drops too low
• Glucose tablets in a known location — same place every time
• Tell people you're with — friends, family, coworkers should know what to do
• Medical alert bracelet or ID — communicates condition to first responders
• Glucagon — for severe hypoglycemia. Newer formulations (Baqsimi nasal, Gvoke pen) are easier to administer than older kits
• Emergency contacts and instructions in your phone's accessible emergency settings

Communicate accessibility needs clearly:

• Ask for printed materials in accessible formats
• Request larger text on glucose logs and instructions
• Ask the team to read instructions aloud at appointments
• Request follow-up by phone or video if office visits are difficult
• Use telehealth when appropriate

A diabetes care and education specialist (CDCES) experienced with vision loss is invaluable.

• Medicare and most US insurances cover talking glucose meters when prescribed
• CGM coverage has expanded substantially in the last decade
• Insulin pumps are typically covered for appropriate candidates
• Patient assistance programs through manufacturers help with cost

Vocational rehabilitation services in some states fund accessible diabetes equipment as part of independent-living support.

• Type 2 Diabetes in Alström Syndrome
• Insulin Resistance in Alström Syndrome
• Adult Life With Alström Syndrome
• Assistive Tech for Adults With Alström Syndrome
• Adjusting to Vision Loss as an Adult With Alström

April 30, 2026.