Fall Prevention for Visually Impaired Seniors Mary D'Apice EnVision Independence www.envisionindependence.org

Vision Rehabilitation Specialists are teachers who help people adapt to vision loss. Money folding techniques 10x Illuminated Magnifier E Z Fill Liquid Alarm We teach people how to use optical devices and adaptive aids. We also train people to get around vision loss by doing things without relying on their eyesight.

How common is vision loss among seniors? According to the 2010 National Health Interview Survey 12% of Americans 65-74 years of age reported having vision loss and 16% over age 75 reported having vision loss. This survey did not include those in assisted living facilities so the number may actually be much higher. People with vision loss are twice as likely to experience falls.

Characteristics of the Normal Aging Eye Difficulty Focusing up Close (Presbyopia) Increased Need for Light Slower Adaptation to Lighting Changes Increased Sensitivity to Glare Reduced Ability to See Color Decreased Depth Perception And most importantly…

Decreased Contrast Sensitivity has the greatest impact on functional vision as objects in the foreground blend into the background. Difficulty seeing curbs and stairs can lead to falls. In low light, some things seem to disappear.

The 4 most common visual impairments among seniors which result in low vision.

Optimize lighting and control glare for maximum visual functioning and safety. Vision Rehabilitation Specialists can provide home modifications. Most falls occur between the bedroom and the bathroom. Flashlights and nightlights are recommended.

Make better use of contrast and color to enhance visibility. Red, yellow and orange are easier to see than blue, green or purple. Avoid pastels.

Bifocal or multifocal lenses Trip Hazards Bifocal or multifocal lenses Looking through the bottom half of the lens will make the lower field of view appear blurry. Clutter Obstacles that cannot be detected due to loss of contrast sensitivity or field loss (glaucoma) can cause accidents. Pets Small pets that may get underfoot should have bells on their collars.

Vision Rehabilitation Specialists can teach you to travel safely and efficiently. Human Guide The Long Cane

Interested in vision rehabilitation? Mary D’Apice of Envision Independence offers workshops and home visits. mary@envisionindependence.org All product photos in this presentation are from the online catalog of Independent Living Aids. You can order their products through my website at www.envisionindependence.org. Just click on Resources.