It is estimated that one in four adults over the age of 80 has a severe visual impairment that prevents them from performing the essential activities of daily living that we all take for granted. Tasks such as reading the mail, medication labels, or the newspaper are impossible even with the use of corrective glasses. Sometimes these changes are related to the natural aging process. However, many changes are not solely age related and may warrant medical intervention. Macular degeneration, the visual effects from a stroke, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma can severely affect vision. Even with the best medical attention, sometimes a client’s vision can be dramatically diminished. Unfortunately, this can have an enormous effect on one’s independence, sense of self worth, confidence, and quality of life. HomeCare Rehab and Nursing, LLC is pleased to now offer therapy services for clients with low vision. Vision loss does not have to mean a loss of independence, isolation, and low self-esteem.

Low Vision Occupational Therapy
An occupational therapist works to maintain a client’s independence in their home environment. Low vision greatly impacts the ability to perform “essential” daily activities such as homemaking, doing laundry, dressing, meal preparation, using a computer, paying bills, reading the newspaper, mail or medication labels. All of these tasks can be evaluated by a low vision occupational therapist who will implement a program to facilitate increased independence and dignity. The process starts with a visual evaluation. Adaptive equipment and visual re-training may be recommended to make more efficient use of remaining sight. Education is also provided on available products as well as community and medical resources which would further enhance independence and function.

How to Make a Referral
If you are a Medicare beneficiary, you may be eligible for this program. Generally, all you need is a referral from your physician, ophthalmologist, or optometrist. Ask your healthcare provider to fax a referral to our office (fax) 301-668-2202 for our occupational therapy low vision program or call our office at 301-662-1997 for more information.

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