Low Vision Rehabilitation

Low vision rehabilitation services provide personalized strategies and tools to enhance visual function and improve daily living for individuals with visual impairments.

Pediatric Low Vision Rehabilitation Services

Pediatric low vision rehabilitation services focus on maximizing the functional vision of children with visual impairments through specialized assessments, interventions, and individualized training to enhance their daily activities and overall quality of life.

  1. Comprehensive Low Vision Evaluations

    • Assessment of visual function and needs specific to children.

  2. Personalized Rehabilitation Plans

    • Tailored strategies to enhance independence and quality of life.

  3. Vision Skills Training via Vision Therapy & Visual Perception Development Programs

    • Exercises to enhance visual skills, like tracking, focusing, and hand-eye coordination, and targeted activities to designed to enhance a child’s ability to interpret and understand visual information.

  4. Adaptive Technology Training

    • Instruction on the use of low vision aids such as magnifiers, telescopes, and electronic devices.

  5. Orientation and Mobility Training

    • Techniques to help children navigate their environment safely and effectively.

  6. Family Education and Support Services

    • Resources and training for families to understand vision loss and support their child's development.

  7. Assistive Device Fitting and Training

    • Customization and training on the use of specific visual aids tailored to the child's needs.

  8. School Consultation and Support

    • Collaboration with educators to adapt learning environments and materials for students with low vision.

  9. Community Resources and Referrals

    • Guidance on accessing additional local services, programs, and resources for children with low vision.

  10. Follow-Up Care

    • Regular assessments to track progress and adjust rehabilitation plans as necessary.

These services aim to empower children with low vision, maximizing their functional vision and enhancing their overall quality of life.

Adult Low Vision Rehabilitation Services

Adult low vision rehabilitation services provide personalized support and strategies to enhance daily living skills and maximize independence for individuals with visual impairments.

  1. Comprehensive Low Vision Evaluations

    • Detailed assessments to determine visual capabilities and limitations.

  2. Personalized Rehabilitation Plans

    • Tailored strategies to enhance independence and quality of life.

  3. Orientation and Mobility Training

    • Instruction on safe travel and navigation skills in various environments.

  4. Assistive Technology Training

    • Guidance on the use of magnifiers, screen readers, and other adaptive devices.

  5. Vision Aids and Devices

    • Prescription and fitting of low vision aids, such as telescopic lenses and electronic magnifiers.

  6. Adaptive Living Skills Training

    • Techniques for performing daily activities with low vision.

  7. Community Resources and Support

    • Information on local resources, support groups, and mobility services.

  8. Ocular Disease Co-Management

    • Monitoring and co-management of conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration.

  9. Patient and Caregiver Education

    • Workshops and one-on-one sessions to educate patients and their families about low vision and ocular diseases.

  10. Follow-Up Care

    • Ongoing assessments and adjustments to rehabilitation plans as needed.

Low vision rehabilitation services empower individuals to make the most of their remaining vision, enhancing their ability to perform daily tasks independently. By providing tailored strategies and support, these services significantly improve overall quality of life and well-being.

Michigan Resources for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Opportunities Unlimited for the Blind

Website: https://oubmichigan.org

Opportunities Unlimited for the Blind (OUB) organizes programs for people with visual impairments develop skills of blindness, helping them become competent, confident, contributing, tax paying, working adults. OUB provides summer camps and work experiences that focus on safely developing confidence and independence while keeping learning fun!

OUB is a Michigan-based organization supported by the Kalamazoo Community Foundation, Grand Rapids Community Foundation, Parker-Hannifin Foundation, Perrigo Foundation, Lions Club of Michigan, The Campbell Group, Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Michigan Project Learning Tree, First Presbyterian Church of Lansing, Michigan, and many other donors who believe in their mission.

Their summer camps are located on at Camp Optimist on the west side of Grand Rapids, MI - transportation services and support programs are available on a first-come first-serve basis.

Please visit the OUB Michigan website for more information.

Leader Dogs for the Blind

Website: https://www.leaderdog.org

Leader Dogs for the Blind believes that everyone deserves a life of independence and mobility. All of their services are provided free of charge for all accepted clients, ensuring that no one is excluded from living their most fulfilling life due to lack of funds. Their programs are designed to provide their clients with the tools and training to reintroduce them to a life of confidence, safety, and independence.

  • Guide Dog Program - This three week program matches guide dogs to visually-impaired individuals (Deaf-Blind training also available) in a safe, clean, and comfortable small class setting that allows guide dog training to be personalized to the needs of each client.

  • Orientation & Mobility - The O&M program is designed to be practical and flexible in order to address the unique circumstances of each client. Each client will work one-on-one with a certified orientation & mobility specialist (COMS) who will help you develop or refresh the skills and concepts you need to travel safely and independently within your home environment and in the community. Applicants must be legally blind, at least 16 years of age, be seizure/fainting free for at least six months, be independently capable of self-care skills (including administering own medications), be able to walk for 30 minutes at a time, multiple times per day, without experiencing any health complications, and not be dependent on a walker or wheelchair to qualify for this program. Acceptance into this program is NOT contingent on whether you plan on eventually training with a guide dog.

  • Teen Orientation & Mobility - This one week program (available in June, July, and August, annually) is designed for teens who have completed a year of high school and a supporter (typically a family member) to learn more about blindness, the skills needed to help visually impaired loved ones, and how to help achieve orientation & mobility goals. Instruction can cover basic cane skills to more advanced skills including guide dog readiness.

  • Teen Summer Camp - This one week program (typically in June, annually) is supported by AAA - The Auto Club Group. This free program combines fun activities with exploring mobility options, discovering leadership skills, and building friendships with peers facing similar challenges. Campers receive a free HumanWare GPS to help increase their travel independence and have the opportunity to learn about living and working with a guide dog. Teens must be legally blind and be 16 or 17 years of age at the time the camp is held, regardless of whether they plan to train with a guide dog.

  • Virtual Learning Resources - Free virtual learning and community resources are available online. Content is regularly updated and is open to anyone. Collaboration Events give organizations within the blindness and low vision field the opportunity to spotlight their resources - these Zoom events are held the last Wednesday of every other month at 3pm EST. Taking the Lead Podcast airs every other Thursday, bringing awareness to issues in the blindness community and sharing stories and experiences of the visually impaired - available wherever you stream podcasts or on the Leader Dogs website.

Leader Dogs for the Blind is located in Rochester Hills, Michigan, and is 100% philanthropically funded by individual donors, Lions clubs, corporate partners, and foundations. Accommodations and meals while training and public transportation to and from the Leader Dog Campus from anywhere in the U.S. or Canada is provided free of charge.

Please visit their website or call (248) 651-9011 or toll free at (888) 777-5332, Monday through Friday from 8am-4pm EST, or reach out via email at clientservices@leaderdog.org with any questions.

Michigan Bureau of Services for Blind Persons

Website: https://www.michigan.gov/leo/bureaus-agencies/bureau-of-services-for-blind-persons

The Michigan Bureau of Services for Blind Persons (BSBP) provides training and services for blind or visually impaired Michigan residents to help them achieve their individual goals. Depending upon your needs and eligibility for specific services, BSBP may be able to provide certain types of adaptive equipment, computer software, postsecondary education, and vocational skills training to aid in finding a job. DeafBlind and Youth services are available.

Please visit their website for more information. State Offices are available throughout the state, including Detroit (313-456-1646).

Michigan Braille and Talking Book Library

Website: https://www.michigan.gov/leo/bureaus-agencies/bureau-of-services-for-blind-persons/btbl

The Braille and Talking Book Library (BTBL) lends audio and braille books to Michigan residents unable to comfortably read standard print materials due to a visual, physical, or reading disability. Apply for service to access thousands of books that can be downloaded directly with BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download), or request one of their digital talking book players and books which can be delivered directly via cartridge through the regular U.S. postal service. This service is free, with no charge to mail materials to the library.

All applications must be submitted with a certifying signature from a certifying authority (including optometry).

Please visit their website or call 1-800-992-9012 for more information.

Visually Impaired Support Groups

The Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology hosts several visually impaired support groups throughout the Metro-Detroit area. Groups are held monthly on specific dates (see below) except for the months of July and August. There is no charge for these services and caregivers and drivers are welcome to attend meetings as well.
Meetings for Seniors only (60+) available. Adults age 20-59 can connect with the “Visionaries” Low Vision support group for general meetings or to participate in the annual DIO EyesOn Design car show that is held each June. The DIO currently does not offer pediatric support group opportunities.

For more information, contact Ashley Livshiz (support group coordinator) at 313-936-1969 or 313-909-8724.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is low vision rehabilitation?

Low vision rehabilitation is a comprehensive program designed to help individuals with visual impairments maximize their remaining vision and improve their quality of life. It incorporates specialized training, adaptive techniques, and assistive devices to support daily activities and independence.

Who can benefit from low vision rehabilitation?

Individuals experiencing significant visual impairment due to conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or optic nerve damage can benefit from low vision rehabilitation. People of all ages with functional vision loss may find these services helpful.

What types of services are offered in low vision rehabilitation?

Services may include comprehensive vision assessments, individualized training in the use of low vision aids, orientation and mobility training, educational resources, and strategies for adapting daily living skills. Each program is tailored to meet the specific needs of the individual.

How is a low vision rehabilitation assessment conducted?

A low vision rehabilitation assessment typically involves a thorough examination of visual function conducted by a certified low vision specialist. This includes evaluating the individual’s remaining vision, understanding their visual goals, and discussing the impact of vision loss on daily routines.

What assistive devices are commonly used?

Common assistive devices used in low vision rehabilitation include magnifying glasses, telescopic lenses, electronic magnifiers, smartphones with accessibility features, and specialized software designed to enhance visual performance. The choice of devices will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the individual.

Is low vision rehabilitation covered by insurance?

Coverage for low vision rehabilitation services varies by insurance provider and plan. Check with your insurance company to determine what specific services are covered and whether a referral from a healthcare provider is needed. It is uncommon for low vision aids and optical devices to be covered by insurance. Speak with your provider to explore additional resources and accessibility options that are more affordable and may benefit your specific needs.

How long does low vision rehabilitation take?

The duration of low vision rehabilitation can vary significantly based on the individual's specific goals, the complexity of their vision issues, and their commitment to the program. Some individuals may achieve their goals in a few sessions, while others may require ongoing support over an extended period.

Can I access low vision rehabilitation services remotely?

Many low vision rehabilitation services are now offered through telehealth options, allowing individuals to receive support and training from the comfort of their homes. Often, an initial in-person assessment is required to fully evaluate visual function with more discussion-based telehealth options becoming available following this assessment. Check with your provider to see what remote services are available and which would work best for you.