Public Education against Vision Loss

 
Vision loss really is a big problem
among the aging part of the US
population; © SXC

The Braille Institute of America launches a public education campaign to keep seniors who experience vision loss active and independent for as long as possible.

Although there is controversy over almost every detail of health reform legislation, no one disputes the inescapable fact underlying the deepening the health care crisis: the US population is aging. Over the next 20 years, the number of Americans aged 65 and older will double, rising every year until they account for 1 in every 5 people in the nation. One of the most common and feared challenges that accompanies aging is fading vision, which is now becoming a reality for hundreds of thousands of people.

In response to this emerging crisis, Braille Institute is launching Solutions in Sight, an ambitious public education campaign. The campaign aims to break through stereotypes and get the word out to seniors, their families and caregivers about free resources that are available through Braille Institute and other community service organizations. The knowledge they gain will help them remain active and find fulfillment in different aspects of life – from cooking and handling personal business affairs to getting around town, staying connected with others, and engaging in their favorite cultural and recreational pastimes.

A centerpiece of the campaign is the new online community. Launched on January 21, 2010, the site will serve as a virtual gathering place for people interested in vision-related topics. They will be able to connect with others and share their personal experiences, find volunteer opportunities and become a part of a true online community of people dedicated to helping visually impaired people live fulfilling lives.

As the campaign gets under way, hundreds of Braille Institute volunteers are preparing to join in coordinated outreach efforts in communities across Southern California, providing tips, practical resources, and information about the many free classes, programs and services being offered at Braille Institute's five regional centers and numerous community locations. The first lifestyle themes to be addressed by the campaign are "Kitchen Confidence" and "Getting Around Town." Both will be highlighted by special events and programs supported by different community partners.

REHACARE.de; Source: Braille Institute of America

- More about the Braille Institute of America at www.brailleinstitute.com

( Source: REHACARE.de )