Sun Sounds really has nothing to do with the sun except that this service could brighten your life or the life of a loved one. This is all about reading publications through the use of an audio system.
Many people are unable to read as a result of macular degeneration, diabetes, or other age related eye diseases. Others may not be able to read print because of a stroke, accident, or age-related infirmities. After a lifetime of reading newspapers, popular magazines, books and other current print, the sudden and dramatic loss of reading ability can bring a sense of great loss and isolation.
Sun Sounds of Arizona provides access to printed publications through three different systems:
1. Sun Sounds Radio- a twenty-four hour broadcast of half-hour and hour long audio programs that feature the reading of publications such as the Wall Street Journal, Arizona regional papers, or USA Today. Other print information read aloud is from local grocery or department stores, magazines, etc. A program and time schedule is provided to help listeners tune in at the right time. You are provided a free radio that allows you to access the readings once you have qualified for the program.
2. Sun Dial provides a twenty-four hour telephone and World Wide Web reading service that provides individual seeking access to read print with greater convenience and more personalized options. Following voice prompts over the telephone and having no more sophisticated equipment beyond a touch-tone phone, a registered Sun Dial user can search the web and listen to specific articles from national, regional and statewide newspapers at his/her convenience. One does not have to listen according to a specific time schedule. This system also allows the user to increase or decrease the speed, skip forward or backward and even repeat articles. (Note: I personally would suggest the use
of a headset for more mobility as you listen to the programs.)
3. Sun Sounds Online provides a twenty-four hour feed of radio broadcasts via the Internet. This is available to anyone but you must have RealPlayer© downloaded to listen to it. You do not need to qualify for Sun Sounds Online. It is similar to the Sun Sounds radio system so this is a great way to check it out.
Anyone who cannot read print because of a medical disability can sign-up for these systems. There is no fee to users, however, you must qualify. You are eligible for services if you cannot read standard printed materials because of a visual disability or a learning or physical disability. Instructions are provided with either large print or Braille booklets or cassette tapes or diskettes.
