Vision Rehabilitation & Resources
Vision Rehabilitation & Low Vision Services
These include an array of professional services and adaptive devices designed to prepare people who are blind or visually impaired to lead independent, productive lives. Examples include:
- Training in skills of daily living (e.g., eating, cooking, personal hygiene), safe mobility in the home and community, and adaptive communications skills (reading and writing Braille and accessing Braille, large-print, and recorded books).
- Learning to use adaptive computer technology and, as needed, being fitted with low-vision optical devices.
- Preparing for and obtaining appropriate paid work.
Courtesy of Wenzhou Medical College
Information & Referral Services
Often internet- or phone-based, these services inform blind and visually impaired people and their families about: eye diseases and disorders; available medical and vision rehabilitation care and technology; and contact data for local care providers. They also often provide blind consumers and their families with opportunities to network with vision experts and with people facing similar challenges.
Case Study Highlights
Courtesy of Alphapointe
Alphapointe
In October 2019, the Fund approved an 18-month grant of $294,000 to Alphapointe, a Kansas City-headquartered nonprofit that operates manufacturing and service businesses employing adults who are blind, to support the renovation of independent living training, meeting, and office spaces on the second floor of its new building in Queens; the purchase and installation of adaptive technology; and a portion of the staffing needed to provide adaptive training services in the new space.
Rutgers University Foundation
In October 2017, the Fund approved a two-year grant of $365,604 to Rutgers University Foundation, to support Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care (UBHC) in launching a peer tele-support mental health program for New York City and Northern New Jersey residents who are blind or visually impaired. The project aimed to provide peer support services, to develop a clinical psychology referral network in NYC as well as within UBHC, and, to refer callers to professional mental health care and vision rehabilitation services.
Courtesy of Lighthouse Guild
VISIONS Services for the Blind & Visually Impaired
In 2013, the Fund approved a grant of $500,000 to support VISIONS, with its partner Helen Keller Services for the Blind, in launching an employer-centered and -guided job training and placement program for adults who are legally blind and live in New York City or Long Island. The program was to cultivate sustainable relationships with selected NYC and Long Island employers who hire entry-level workers.