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How do you define independence? Most of us would quickly say it is having the ability to jump in your car and drive yourself to doctor appointments, grocery shopping or a favorite restaurant at a time that suits you. But what happens when severe vision loss takes away that option?
Joan, age 65, was looking for social/recreational activities with others who were blind or visually impaired so she could get out of the house more and increase her confidence. Joan worried that if she found an activity that interested her
how would I get there
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Theresa, age 74, was living with type 2 diabetes and vision loss. Theresa wanted to attend educational classes to learn more about how to cope with both of her conditions but worried
how would I get there?
More than 30 years ago, the Center for Vision Loss solved the "how would I get there" dilemma by establishing Escorted Transportation, a door-through-door service with a sighted guide. While times have changed, the need remains and today. Escorted transportation has become the most utilized program provided by the agency. Its success is due to the inclusion of a sighted guide who provides the additional assistance necessary because of the client's increased difficulty with reading, mobility, visual motor activities and interpreting visual information -all stressors when accessing new environments.
The majority of our clients are seniors affected by one or more of the age-related eye diseases-cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. While they want to remain living independently in their own homes, they may have limited access to family members or friends they can rely on for their transportation needs. Or they may be single or widows/widowers who live alone or may live with a spouse who is a caregiver but also can no longer drive. Our clients may need rides to essential medical appointments, grocery shopping, and locations such as the pharmacy or bank. They are also are interested in accessing the quality of life improvement opportunities provided by the agency. These opportunities include support groups to improve mental health, life skills education to learn new skills, and socialization activities to avoid isolation.
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