Categories
Bridges Resource Library

Labeling Our Medicines Accessibly

Updated as of September 19, 2024.

Let’s delve into the “Why” and “How” of labeling medicine containers so that they are non-visually accessible.

Why Label Medicines?

Many medicines come in different shapes and sizes, particularly medicines we buy over the counter. While we can use the shape of the bottle to identify the medicine, this method won’t work with medicines in similar packaging. Additionally, when we are sick, we don’t feel our best, and we might not want to rely on identifying a medicine solely by the shape of its container.

Braille Labels

Braille labels can provide easy and ready access to the identity of a medicine container for braille readers. We can also feel free to use whatever shorthand braille we wish; these labels are for our use only, so we can choose a label that makes sense to us.

Getting the braille label

Options include using clear braillable labels and a Perkins Brailler to make braille labels. Just load the clear braille label paper into the brailler and braille away. Other options for using a brailler to make labels include other labels/stickers that are not clear or using braille paper, cardstock, or index cards for the label. Regardless of the method used, cut the label out and place (or tape) it on the medicine container. We could also use a slate and stylus instead of a brailler.

Additionally, there are several options for accessing a braille labeling device. They include:

Handheld braille label makers

Electronic braille label maker

Choosing the label text

Even if you buy generic pain reliever acetaminophen (Tylenol is the name brand), feel free to label your large container “Tylenol” and your travel-size container “ty.” You know what it means, and that’s all that really matters. You might also use a marker to write a large “T” on the lid of the container for quick visual access.

Where to place the label?

You get to choose where to place the braille label on the container. While the print label is usually wrapped horizontally around the mid-section of the bottle, this is not an easy way to read braille for many. So, instead, consider placing the braille label vertically on the side of the bottle, with the beginning of the label at the top of the bottle. This way, you can easily find and read the braille label without even picking up the bottle!

When medicine comes in boxes or plastic packs, use the same principles in applying braille labels. You can even ditch the box, put the medicine in a zippered plastic bag, and affix a braille label to the bag. We may choose whatever works best for each of us; there are no “rules.” After all, the labels are for us to use – not to look pretty for someone else.

Other Tactile Labels

There are many types of non-braille tactile systems we can use to label our medicines. We can:

  • Use tactile stickers with different shapes
  • Use tactile stickers with different textures
  • Use different numbers/placements of tactile stickers
  • Use rubber bands
  • Use a combination of these methods

The possibilities are limitless. However, an important key to using a non-braille tactile labeling system is to remember the system! We can make electronic documents and/or audio recordings to help us remember the system we used. This is particularly helpful for medicines we don’t use often (like ointments and creams for injuries).

Electronic Label Systems

With any of the following electronic labeling systems, we can easily use the system’s labels to record and re-record audio messages. Note that each system has its own proprietary labels, and these labels are not interchangeable.

After creating a recording on a label, just affix it to the desired object. Then, use the device to access the audio recording stored on that label. Each of the devices below is battery-powered, and each has a built-in speaker.

Reizen Talking Label Wand

This tool offers a built-in headphone jack in addition to the speakers in the wand, and the device can store up to 250 hours of audio (contained in multiple labels). Find out more in the Bridges Resource Library’s Reizen Talking Label Wand entry.

PENfriend 3 Voice Labeling System from RNIB

PENfriend labels can record up to 60 minutes of audio. Thus, in addition to labeling medicine, we can use these labels to store music, audiobooks, etc. Like the Reizen Talking Label Wand, the PENfriend 3 pen can support up to 250 hours of playback. Find out more in the Bridges Resource Library’s PENfriend 3 Voice Labeling System entry.

VOXCOM III 100 Voice Labeling System with 100 Cards

The VOXCOM III 100 Voice Labeling System includes 100 cards on which we can record 10-second messages. Find out more in the Bridges Resource Library’s VOXCOM III 100 Voice Labeling System entry.

WayAround Labeling System

With WayAround, you do not need a special device to record or play your WayAroud labels. Instead, you access that information via your own iOS or Android SmartPhone (or tablet). Find out more in the Bridges Resource Library’s WayAround Labeling System entry.

Sighted assistance

Of course, we can also use sighted assistance if we choose. That sighted assistance may be a friend or acquaintance in person or on a Zoom or Facetime call. Alternatively, we can use online visual assistance programs like AIRA and Be My Eyes; find out more in the Bridges Resources Library’s AIRA entry and the Be My Eyes entry.

Contact the Bridges Helpdesk for More Information

This unique project is being coordinated through The IMAGE Center of Maryland, a center for independent living in Towson, and it is funded by a grant from the Maryland Department of Education Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *