CNIB provides valuable services for the visually impaired

Mrs. Smith was recently diagnosed with glaucoma. Lately, she’s frustrated because she’s bumping into things and getting around is becoming a problem. She’s lost her confidence and is beginning to feel wary about leaving home. Mrs. Smith’s daughter, who lives with her mom, is extremely worried about her mother.

Mr. Jones can’t drive anymore. His macular degeneration has progressed to the point that reading and finding the microwave start button are issues.

The CNIB has the most comprehensive vision rehabilitation program in Canada. Services may vary by province, but range from low vision services, to orientation and mobility instruction to support groups.

A professional assessment through Low Vision Services will help pinpoint exactly what would help Mr. Jones read. Light angled from behind him instead of overhead may help and so might the right magnifier.

He can prepare food on his own too. Brightly coloured dot stickers placed strategically on the microwave will help him find the right buttons so he doesn’t always need someone to help him.

Independence is important to Mrs. Smith. She can learn how to navigate her home and her community safely with instruction from our orientation and mobility specialists. Freedom returns through lessons and supervised practice on her favourite routes.

Mrs. Smith’s daughter will learn how to make her mother’s home safer for her by pushing in chairs and leaving things in the same place. Her mom’s renewed confidence gives her peace of mind.

Both families will learn about the CNIB library. If their vision loss progresses and they cannot read in the same way, they will still have the experience of reading. The library means they can “read” thousands of books, magazines and newspapers.

Staying in touch with the outside world will go a long way to helping them ease their feelings of frustration. CNIB services can help regain their confidence and independence and enjoyment of life.

CNIB provides knowledge, community-based support and a national voice to ensure that blind or partially sighted Canadians have the confidence, skills and opportunities to fully participate in life.

Visit their new website at www.cnib.ca for more information.