Implications of Vision Loss in the Elder Population

Laura Vittorioso, M.Ed, CVRT, CLVT

Samantha Green, MA, CVRT

Expected increase of vision loss in older population

Approximately 40,000 Mainers have some level of functional vision loss.

Currently 24,000 are classified as visually impaired or blind.

Demographics

Visually Impaired

Legal Blindness

Low Vision

Total Vision Loss

Definitions

Age-Related Macular Degeneration,

Glaucoma

Diabetic Retinopathy

Head Injuries or Strokes.

Common Eye Conditions

Hearing Loss

Diabetes

Heart disease

Arthritis

Secondary Disabilities

Medical Professionals

Psycho-Social Professional

Vision Rehabilitation Specialists

Technology Specialist

Community Agencies

Multidisciplinary Approach

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Independent Living

The Maine Division for the Blind and

Visually Impaired (DBVI) provides

services for older individuals who

are blind and visually impaired.

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Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (VRT)

Evaluates, instructs and guides persons

with visual impairments to utilize adaptive

skills

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Orientation and Mobility Specialist (O&M)

Provides instruction and assists in the

goal of being a safe and independent

traveler.

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Adjustment Counselor (AC)

Helps individuals process the losses

from impaired

vision.

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Adaptive Technology Specialist

Evaluates and instructs adults who are visually

impaired in assistive

technology.

Low Vision Services

Specially trained Eye Specialists, who

evaluate and recommend

magnification for people with visual

diseases.

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Vision Rehabilitation Services

Low VisionOptometry

Maine DBVIIndependent Living

Services, O&M, VRT

Computer Access

The Iris Network VRT, AC,

Low Vision Clinic

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Referrals

How can I get these

services?

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 labeling.

Hallways, Stairways and Signage

Use efficient Lighting

Always use contrast

Label 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

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Questions and Answers