by Rab Bruce’s Spider

CAN VISUALLY impaired people still watch TV or go to the cinema? Yes, they can, and it’s thanks to something called Audio Description. Like so many things to do with disabilities, though, it’s something of a secret, so here’s a quick run down of how to get the most from your viewing if you can’t see.

Audio Description, usually abbreviated to AD, is an extra audio track which describes what is happening on the screen. You hear all the dialogue, but you also hear the description of the action in between, so you know what is happening.

Most cinemas now have AD as standard on most showings of ilms, so all you need to do is ask for a headset when you buy your ticket. These headsets can be chunky headphones or can be a small box into which you can plug your own 3.5mm earphone jack. Then you sit back and enjoy the ilm with your friends and family. You can still hear the movie soundtrack because cinemas always have the volume turned up, but you get the extra AD soundtrack through the headset. It really is a fantastic service because going to the cinema is generally a social occasion, and AD means visually impaired people can be included.