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Frequently Asked Questions

Accessibility, Mobility, and Support Options
1. My father is a senior and is beginning to lose his vision. He could use some emotional support. What should I do?

He would benefit from a peer-to-peer support group.

2. I recently moved to a new area and I am losing my vision. I don’t know what to do.

You could find national organizations in your area. There are local chapters that you may acquaint yourself with. Examples include:

  • LightHouse for the Blind

  • National Federation of the Blind (NFB)

  • American Council of the Blind (ACB)

  • American Foundation for the Blind (AFB)

3. I have been an avid reader, but I can no longer read print. What should I do?

Contact a Low Vision Specialist.

4. I would like to go back to school and continue working on my degree. Now that I am blind, I don’t know how to get started. Is there any help available?

Colleges and universities have Disability Resource Offices on campus. National organizations for the blind may also be a good resource for services to aid and assist. Additionally, you should contact your local Vocational Rehabilitation Office.

5. I am starting a new job in a large facility. I don’t want to ask my coworkers for help all the time. Where can I get assistance?

Contact Vocational Rehabilitation Services in your area and ask for Orientation and Mobility training.

Independent Living and Daily Life
6. How can I travel independently while experiencing vision loss?

There are several blind organizations that can help with mobility training to teach someone how to travel in their area and other locations, such as:

  • Blind Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM)

  • Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS)

  • National Federation of the Blind (NFB) training schools

There are also independent cane travel instructors available. Other options include:

  • Public transportation with a companion or sighted guide assistant

  • Para-transit ride-share services such as Mobility or MetroAccess, which have trained instructors to assist you in navigating public transit routes

  • Additional ride-share options associated with your para-transit service

Uber, Lyft, or local taxi services

7. How do I talk to my family about my vision loss?

You can speak to someone who has experienced vision loss themselves, such as a support group where others can answer questions and provide encouragement. You may invite your family and friends to the I3s Foundation support group, which meets on Zoom every Tuesday and Thursday. Other options include in-person meetings with the NFB or similar organizations so your loved ones can learn how you can live confidently as you adapt to blindness or visual impairment.

8. I am still working. How can I keep my job while losing my sight?

There are educational and technical programs available that can help with adaptive technology and alternative techniques so you can continue performing your job duties. These programs can also work with your employer to recommend devices and accommodations you may need to learn to use.

9. How much do I have to pay for services to help me adapt to blindness?

Upon an evaluation by your doctor and a service such as the Department of Rehabilitation Services, there should not be a charge for services if you are eligible.

10. What are some common accessibility skills I will need to develop for daily life?

You will need to learn independent living skills and develop strategies for tasks such as:

  • Grooming and hygiene

  • Cleaning and cooking

  • Using smart devices with speech recognition, large print, or magnifiers

11. Is there a way I can continue my education?

Yes, you will be evaluated by one of the above organizations to determine your strengths and needs. A low vision specialist might be recommended. Colleges also have disability support services that offer accommodations such as:

  • Audio textbooks

  • Assigned readers

  • Assistance around campus

  • Other accommodations

 

If you have any further questions or need additional support, please send us a message. We understand the challenges of vision loss, and our community is here to help.

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