Vision loss is one of the most-common disabilities affecting seniors. In 2011, the National Health Interview Survey, conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, estimated that 12 percent of people 65 and older experience some sort of vision loss, a number that is expected to double by 2030. While vision loss impacts an individual’s ability to perform everyday activities, it doesn’t mean a person cannot live independently – he or she just has to learn new ways of doing things.  
To help seniors 55 and older learn to live with vision loss and blindness, the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS) has the Older Alabamians System for Information and Services (OASIS) Program. OASIS provides consumers with in-home assessment and instruction in independent living skills from vision rehabilitation therapists (VRT). Examples of this instruction include the use of magnification, tactile markings on appliances, and aids for money management. OASIS can also provide training in safe travel skills through orientation and mobility specialists. These staff members also link seniors to resources as well as other aging programs. Services are provided though federal funds at no cost to consumers. In FY16, OASIS assisted 1,024 older Alabamians statewide.  
OASIS staff are assigned to various areas to serve blind and visually impaired consumers throughout the M4A area and statewide. To refer a consumer or for more information about OASIS, contact OASIS Program Coordinator Matthew Haynes at 205-290-4451 or at matthew.haynes@rehab.alabama.gov. More information is also available on their website at www.rehab.alabama.gov/OASIS, where you can learn about the Camp SAVI program hosted by OASIS and the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind.  
ADRS provides similar services through is Vocational Rehabilitation Service, which serves blind or visually impaired high school students and adults of all ages in preparing for and obtaining employment. Services are also available to those younger than 55 whom are not interested in employment as a general services consumer. Please contact Carol Pinkard at 205-290-4435 or carol.pinkard@rehab.alabama.gov regarding these services.
They look forward to collaborating with other organizations to serve those in with vision loss in the M4A area!   CONTACT THEM TODAY.