Finding specific help after vision loss can be tricky, especially if no one has told you what services are available. These 6 less-familiar phone numbers can connect you with help related to Medicare, disability benefits, veterans’ services, accessible reading and news, and navigating everyday life with vision loss.
6 numbers you may want to have handy
Have questions about Medicare coverage?
Medicare and Eye Treatment: 800-633-4227
If you have an eye condition and use Medicare, call before scheduling a service or buying equipment. Ask what’s covered, what you might have to pay, and whether you need to use a participating provider.
You can also get free, local Medicare guidance through your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program. For more details, see this downloadable Medicare guide to vision services (PDF).
Have you lost income due to vision loss?
Social Security and Vision Impairment: 800-772-1213
Contact the Social Security Administration to ask if you qualify for vision-related benefits through Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income.
Even if you don’t think you qualify, it may be worth calling! These applications can take time, so consider calling sooner rather than later.
Are you a veteran with vision loss?
Veterans Affairs Blind Rehabilitation Service: 202-461-7317
Eligible veterans may receive vision rehabilitation, mobility training, assistive technology, low vision devices, and other support for living independently.
Geo Athappilly of the Hines VA encourages veterans with vision loss to reach out: “Come check us out. I definitely think that we can do some productive things to really be helpful for you.”
Hear more in Hadley Presents: Veterans Administration Services and Vision Loss.
Interested in free audiobooks and magazines?
National Library Service: 888-657-7323
The National Library Service provides eligible readers with free access to thousands of audiobooks, braille books, and magazines, and accessible reading equipment.
Talking books reader advisor Tonia Blickford offers a way to think about whether the service could help you: “Can you really read like you used to read? If the answer's no, well then please call us.”
Hear more in Hadley Presents: National Library Service and Free Talking Books.
Would you like access to newspapers and magazines with vision loss?
NFB-NEWSLINE: 866-504-7300
NFB-NEWSLINE is a free audio news service for people with vision loss. It offers access to national and state newspapers, magazines, online news, weather, TV listings and more. You can use it by phone, smartphone app, Alexa, computer, email, and other accessible devices.
According to Hadley practical help expert Steve Kelley, there are over 300 newspapers, 60 magazines, TV listings, state-specific information, and more.
Could you use some support for living with vision loss?
Hadley Helps: 800-323-4238
If you’ve been told nothing more can be done for your vision loss, that’s not the end of the story. Hadley’s specialists can answer questions and connect you with practical help, emotional support, and opportunities to talk with others who “get it,” at no cost.
Not sure where to begin? Start with the resource that most closely matches what you need today, or call Hadley at 800-323-4238 for help deciding a good next step.
Reviewed by: Danette Johnson, TVI, COMS
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