Low
vision, a collective term for vision loss that cannot be reversed by
glasses, medication, or surgery, is one of the major areas of research and
treatment at the Wilmer Eye Institute. The work has led to novel solutions for
some patients. Those with vision impairment suffering from macular
degeneration (a disease that damages the center of the retina, called the
macula) and other vision problems receive detailed visual-function testing,
evaluation and rehabilitation.
At the Low
Vision Rehabilitative Service, a multidisciplinary team of doctors
and rehabilitative specialists works closely with the patient, family, friends
and the referring doctor to assist an individual in regaining function lost by
visual impairment. This typically includes addressing vision issues causing
problems with reading, driving and activities of daily living. Home visits and
other services provided by our occupational therapy staff outside of the Low
Vision office are limited to a maximum of 60 miles round trip and within the
State of Maryland.
A typical low vision evaluation involves a functional assessment including
a low vision refraction and prescription of magnifiers, telescopes and
assistive technology as appropriate. In addition, visual skills training
such as eccentric viewing and blindness skills are provided as are referrals
to comprehensive blind rehabilitation centers. The low vision service does not
have minimum vision requirements, but works with all patients who have
functional impairment due to an eye disease or condition.
For specific information, click on the following links:
I am a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (ACVREP)
graduating with my master's degree from Boston College and an undergraduate
degree in Special Education, certified K – 12 Teacher of the handicapped. I have trained children and adults with visual impairments in
every settings. I have also trained individuals with multiple
disabilities giving me direct experience in evaluating people and their ability
to use a public bus. I also have many personal experiences with people who are
visually challenged giving me the experience needed to work with people with
disabilities. I have conducted over 2,000 in-person assessments.
Orientation and mobility (O&M) is an exciting discipline in low vision
and blind rehabilitation that teaches people to travel safely, efficiently and
independently in their environment. Orientation is the process of mentally
organizing the environment and determining one’s location within that
environment. Mobility is the act of moving through the environment in a safe and
graceful manner. An orientation and mobility specialist teaches people who are
blind or visually impaired to travel by:
