How We Can Help

Managing Your Vision

Most of our clients still have some remaining vision, and many of our services aim to maximise this remaining vision. Optometrists and orthoptists at our Vision Management [Low Vision] Centre specialise in assessing vision and prescribing optical aids such as magnifiers and telescopes.

More than 1,200 new clients receive services at our Vision Management Centre each year.

We provide:

• Advice about the impact and treatment of a range of eye conditions and diseases
• Access to the most effective optical aids and advice on their use
• Advice on adapting and improving lighting to make better use of existing sight.

The process of obtaining an optical aid to maximise remaining vision is similar to that involved in obtaining a pair of prescription glasses.

Home-based Programs

We provide practical support and assistance to allow our clients to live independently in their homes. Occupational therapists, social workers and orientation and mobility instructors visit clients in their homes to provide services, aids and equipment. 

Group Programs

Our group programs draw on the knowledge and skills of several disciplines including occupational therapy, orientation and mobility, social work and information management.

Living Well

The Living Well Program provides participants with an understanding of the causes and effects of vision loss; strategies to cope with vision loss and equipment that can help with everyday tasks such as handling money, shopping, personal care and meal preparation.

Coping with Loss

The Coping with Loss program assists clients better manage the many losses associated with vision loss and other aged related medical conditions.

Care for Carers

We run Care for the Carers groups for people who care for relatives or friends with vision impairment.

The groups aim to:

• Increase their knowledge and understanding of eye conditions
• Share information about strategies, services and benefits available to individuals with vision impairment and their carers

• Gain valued support from others who are caring for people experiencing vision loss.

Companions Coffee Club

Anyone who is the carer/companion (partner, son, daughter, mother, father or friend) of someone who experiences vision impairment is a potential Companions Coffee Club member. Meetings are held every two months.

Telelink

Our Telelink program links individuals by telephone on a conference call to a set group of vision impaired clients on a regular time and day. Several Telelink groups run each week. Some are education based, with guest speakers and topics, while others are more social in focus.

Living Safe

Essential self defence, assertiveness, awareness and protective strategies are provided in our Living Safe group program.

Podiatry Service

A Podiatry service is available every six weeks from a qualified Podiatrist.

Resources for Managing Your Vision: