Low-Vision Problems? LEAP’s Got a Program for That!

Various high- and low-tech devices can help people with vision loss maneuver safely around their homes and maximize use of their residual vision. But tackling life head-on takes courage. Hearing the wisdom of someone who’s thrived despite vision loss can inspire that courage. At a recent presentation to the Vision Concerns Support Group at Independence Village, a retirement community in Avon Lake, LEAP’s low-vision staff presented a program that offered a perfect balance of professional knowledge and “been-there, done-that” support.

“So many things besides magnifiers are available to help you maintain your independence,” said Independent Living Specialist Kerensa Ottinger. Bump dots, for example, can be adhered to stoves, microwave ovens, and other appliances to help people “feel” flat, electronic buttons and timers. Ottinger also recommended such “talking” items as clocks, watches, and scales. Large-display alarm clocks usually have red numbers, she explained, but when vision deteriorates, the color red is the first thing to disappear, so the talking clocks are more helpful. She and Melissa Hernandez, another independent living specialist, also discussed such high-tech options as computer software that enlarges or reads aloud and closed-circuit televisions to help people enlarge and read printed materials.

During the conversation, Hernandez, who began to lose her vision at age 7, offered personal tips on cooking and home-decorating. She described a talking device she owns that “reads” the color of items; she uses it to ensure that her outfits match. But perhaps most valuable was the wisdom she shared.

“I’ve been through everything you’re going through, and I can tell you you’re not alone on this journey,” she said. “The American Foundation for the Blind estimates that 25 million Americans suffer from low vision, and as macular degeneration affects more people under the age of 55, that number will grow.”

As audience members nodded knowingly, Hernandez explained that each time vision deteriorates; a person feels grief and depression. “It’s a loss, just like if you lose someone you love,” she said. “But you have to remember that your value, and how much people love you, doesn’t fade as your vision fades. It’s hard to ask for help, but I figure I’ve helped many people, and now it’s my turn to ask for help. Many people enjoy helping others, and you shouldn’t deny them that opportunity. Your job is to tell them exactly what you need.”

Hernandez gave five keys to prospering on the low-vision journey. “You need knowledge of the available aides and services,” she said. “You need determination. You need willingness to make changes as your vision decreases. You need creativity to come up with new ways to do things. And finally, you need a sense of humor to cope with all the funny situations that come up.”

LEAP’s Low-Vision Program is funded through the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission. To be eligible for services, a person must be a resident of Lorain County aged 55 or older, with vision problems that cannot be corrected by eyeglasses or surgery. The program hopes to expand its services to consulting with retirement communities and nursing homes to make those facilities more user-friendly for people with low vision.

For more information, contact the Low-Vision Program at 440-324-3444.