Implications of Vision Loss in the Elder Population Laura Vittorioso, M.Ed, CVRT, CLVT Samantha Green, MA, CVRT

Demographics Expected increase of vision loss in elders. More than 20 million report significant vision loss. Approximately 40,000 Mainers report significant vision loss.

Definitions Visually Impaired Legal Blindness Low Vision Total Vision Loss

Common Eye Conditions Age-Related Macular Degeneration Glaucoma Diabetic Retinopathy Head Injuries or Strokes

Secondary Disabilities Arthritis Hearing Impairment Heart Disease Diabetes Dementia

Multidisciplinary Approach Vision Rehabilitation specialists Ophthalmologists Low Vision Specialists Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy Agencies on Aging

Independent Living Services The Iris Network contracts with The Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired to provide vision rehabilitation to older people. 12

Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (CVRT) Evaluates, instructs and guides persons with visual impairments to utilize adaptive skills 13

Certified Orientation and Mobility Instructor (COMS) Provides instruction and assists in the goal of being a safe and independent traveler. 14

Personal Adjustment Counselor (LCSW) Helps individuals with the emotional adjustment resulting from vision loss. 15

Computer Access Specialists Evaluates and instructs adults who are visually impaired in assistive technology. 16

Eye specialists who evaluate and recommend optical devices. Low Vision Services Eye specialists who evaluate and recommend optical devices.

Vision Rehabilitation Services Maine DBVI Vocational Rehabilitation Independent Living COMS, CVRT The Iris Network ApartmentsLV Clinic CVRT, LCSW, LSW, COMS Assistive Technology Low Vision 18

How can I get these services? Referrals How can I get these services? 19

Early intervention works best!

If you were visually impaired, which hallway would you rather walk down?

The hallway on the right has better contrast.

Contrast and Color Light and Dark Explore bold colors Use it EVERYWHERE! Adapting what you have

Where would you rather bathe?

The bathroom on the right has less glare.

Lighting and Glare Brighter is not always better Illuminating areas vs. Illuminating tasks Controlling Glare Enhancing visibility through color

Which stairs would you rather walk down?

The stairs on the right have better markings.

Hallways, Stairways and Signage Use efficient Lighting Always use contrast Mark stairs Display jumbo printed signs

Now that you have the tools, what changes would you make to this nursing home room?

Remember, environmental adaptations can be simple! Observe your residents Ask your residents Remember your tools Ask for an Environmental Assessment from The Iris Network.

Questions and Answers 33

Resources The American Foundation for the Blind www.afb.org Lighthouse International www.lighthouse.org National Center for Health Statistics 2006 www.cdc.gov/nchs/nhis.htm National Eye Institute www.nih.gov

Copy of this Power Point Will be posted on: www.theiris.org/visionloss.htm