Accessible Glucose Monitors: Why Aren’t They Better Yet?

Can you really manage diabetes accessibly as a blind user? In this powerful episode, Shaun dives into the search for an accessible blood glucose monitor—and gets an eye-opening response from Tess Lockton, a visually impaired parent of a child with type 1 diabetes. From the frustrating reality of so-called “talking monitors” to the pros and cons of continuous glucose monitors like Dexcom and Libre, Tess shares hard-earned insights every listener needs to hear.

Also in this episode: Steven and Shaun talk Eero mesh networks, gigabit internet, and Sky Glass, before diving into your feedback on navigation tech, including a thoughtful message about GPS and accessibility from listener Doug.

[Episode Summary]
Shaun shares his struggles managing type 2 diabetes as a blind person and kicks off a deeper conversation about accessible diabetes tools. Listener Tess Lockton joins to discuss raising a child with type 1 diabetes while visually impaired—and how the tech designed to help often falls short. She breaks down her experiences with Dexcom and Libre systems, the challenges of getting accurate readings, and why even the best tech solutions still leave accessibility gaps.

Meanwhile, Steven updates his home setup with Sky Glass and talks through the accessibility differences between SkyQ and the new system. The duo also nerd out over mesh networking and smart speakers—and highlight new listener feedback on GPS tech like StellarTrek and the missed potential of Soundscape-style navigation.

[Chapters]
0:00 – Shaun’s glucose journey begins
3:40 – Weekend updates: Eero mesh fixes and gigabit drama
9:55 – Sky Glass, audio description, and setup accessibility
18:10 – Double Tap’s new newsletter partnership with Mindvault
22:04 – Listener Tess Lockton joins to talk accessible diabetes tech
24:20 – Living through diagnosis and hospital mishandling
31:05 – Dexcom vs Libre: pros, cons, and accessibility flaws
40:15 – Finger-prick demo: Why even “accessible” monitors fail
52:10 – The hidden costs and pressure of using inaccessible tools

[Relevant Links]
Double Tap Newsletter: https://doubletaponair.com/subscribe
Nexus Voice Talking Blood Glucose Monitor: https://www.glucorx.co.uk/shop/nexus-voice-meter/
Dexcom Continuous Glucose Monitoring: https://www.dexcom.com
Freestyle Libre 3 System: https://www.freestyle.abbott/en-ca/products/what-is-free-style-libre.html
RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People): https://www.rnib.org.uk
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About Double Tap
Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who’s blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you’ll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.

“Double Tap” is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.