FAQ by those who are legally blind...

• What kind of assistance is available?
• What kind of financial assistance is available?
• What kind of instruction is available?
• What are talking books?
• What kinds of aids and appliances are available?
• Who supplies these aids?
• What are low vision devices?
• How can I get them?
• What do the clinics do?
• Who pays for this?

What kind of financial assistance is available?

At the very least, there is an added exemption on income taxes. For those on Supplemental Security Income, there may be an added increment for those who are legally blind.

What kind of instruction is available?

• Training in mobility and orientation, including instruction in independent travel with or without a cane
• Orientation to immediate surroundings or to new or unfamiliar settings
• Training in activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, cooking, housekeeping, shopping, and eating
• Training in communication, such as learning to write notes, to label things, to keep a checking account, and to use the telephone.
• Complete or partial instruction is offered, depending on the needs of the individual.
• The instruction can be arranged and paid for by the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

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What are talking books?

Talking books are complete books recorded on audio cassette tapes or compact discs that are available for check-out at the Joeten Kiyu Public Library. Also known as "audio books," the Library offers over a hundred different titles to choose from and may be especially enjoyable for those who are visually impaired.

What kinds of aids and appliances are available?

• Special timepieces or watches with raised markings and open faces
• Appliances that are adapted with raised dial markings
• Other simple devices that can be useful to those who are visually impaired

Who supplies these aids?

The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation may purchase these devices directly from the American Foundation for the Blind, the National Federation of the Blind, or through internet or catalog companies that specialize in independent living aids.

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What are low vision devices?

Low vision devices are special aids that enable people to make the most of their usable vision, but require patience and practice. They can include:

• Distance viewers
• A monocular (for use with one eye)
• A variety of magnifying glasses.

How can I get them?

They are available from stores, eye clinics or optical shops that specialize in these types of devices. Referrals are made either directly by physicians or through the VR counselor.

What do the clinics do?

They evaluate and prescribe the appropriate devices. They teach and counsel patients how to properly use the devices. They conduct follow-up to ensure correct management since some of the devices can only be used successfully under special conditions of lighting and distance.

Who pays for this?

Depending upon individual circumstances, the cost may be met by the individual's medical insurance or another community program such as the Office on Aging. All other available resources must be tapped before OVR funds are utilized.

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