When your vision changes, your focus may first be on doctor’s appointments, treatments, and questions about how much vision you might lose. But as vision loss starts affecting your daily routine, that focus might shift to a new question: “How do I keep living my life?”
Fortunately, there are people and resources who can provide real support beyond the doctor’s office—including professionals who can teach you new skills, tools and techniques to help you keep living the life you want. Many of their services are free, and some may be covered by insurance.
Here’s a look at these experts, what they do, and how to find them.
Vision Rehab: Everyday Life, Your Way
A vision rehabilitation therapist provides training in a variety of practical skills so you can learn new methods that work with your level of vision. They focus on daily living tasks like reading, cooking, and getting around safely. Most vision rehab services are offered for free through your state agency, or there may be a small fee through other organizations.
To find the state agency nearest you, see the Resources list below. Note that there may be a waiting list for your local agency—but there’s plenty you can learn and explore right away. For example, Hadley offers online videos on cooking with vision loss; labeling things so they’re easier to find; and reading your mail, recipes, books, and more.
Orientation and Mobility: Getting Around Safely
An O&M specialist teaches people with vision loss to travel safely, whether you’re in your own home or going out for a walk, an appointment, or some shopping. And if you’re curious about using a white cane, this specialist will help you decide what’s right for you and show you how to get started.
To find the O&M services you need, check out the Resources list below. And you can start learning right away with free Hadley workshops on how to move around your home more comfortably, find an address, and feel more confident in the grocery store.
Low Vision Specialists: Finding Tools That Help
Sometimes you need more than a new technique; you need a handy tool or gadget, or different lighting. A low vision specialist can help you find what’s right for you. This professional can assess your vision and show you which devices and strategies are the best fit for your life, to help maximize the vision you have.
Check out the Resources section to find low vision specialists near you. Different practices offer different levels of personalized help, and insurance coverage can vary—so it’s always a good idea to call ahead of time to find out what to expect.
You can also learn about many helpful devices here at Hadley. For example, did you know that all magnifiers are not the same? Or that lighting can make a huge difference? And smartphone apps that describe your surroundings are easier to use than you might think.
Resources: Where to Find Help After Vision Loss
- To find an agency that offers vision rehab or O&M training, visit this online directory from Prevent Blindness to locate an agency in your state and region.
- The Veterans Administration offers blind and low vision rehabilitation services for veterans (800-698-2411, then press 0).
- Check out this page from The Vision Council Foundation to find a low vision specialist near you.
- And you can call Hadley at 800-323-4238. We can help you find the resources that are right for you.
Want to learn more? Check out these Hadley Presents podcast episodes:
- Services You Should Know When New to Vision Loss
- A Guide to Vision Rehab
- Specialists for Low Vision
- Veterans Administration Services and Vision Loss
Coping with Vision Loss
Hadley member Daryl Pratt shares how a referral to a low vision specialist made a difference for him, in the Insights & Sound Bites episode Things Turned Around for Me.
You can listen to Hadley’s podcasts on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or by phone: 847-558-1317.
Connect with Others: Resource Roundtable
Looking for resources specific to vision loss? Have some to share? Join Resource Roundtable, a monthly discussion group, to discover and share tips for connecting to the information and support you’re looking for.
You’re Not Alone
If you're wondering what support is out there or just need someone to talk to, Hadley is here. Call us at 800-323-4238 or email [email protected].
If you’re experiencing vision loss, what help have you found? What are some things you wish you could find a way to do again?
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