Low Vision and Older Adults: Optimizing Safety and Independence in the Home Environment.

Older adults with low vision can regain the ability to engage in activities that they love and can function safely in their own homes if provided with appropriate tools, strategies, and resources. This 1.5 hour course will educate the participant in low vision diagnoses, intervention strategies, and resources to promote safety and independence at home and increase the quality of life for these clients. This course includes a discussion of major low vision diagnoses, as well as the functional and psychosocial impairments associated with these diagnoses. Participants will be introduced to functional screening techniques to identify clients with low vision, as well as appropriate referrals for these clients. This course includes an in-depth discussion of intervention strategies to increase safety and independence for clients with low vision, including low vision devices, compensatory strategies, and assistive technology. The course includes a detailed description of local and national resources for clients with low vision, as well as online resources. These course components will provide the social worker or case manager participant with the skills to identify barriers in client homes, and select strategies to allow clients to engage in meaningful activities. In order to receive a certificate, a survey must be completed.

Presenters:
Karen Frank PT, Certified Fall Prevention Specialist, Home Improvement Contractor
Gregg Frank OTR, Certified Aging In Place Specialist, Home Improvement Contractor
Both Gregg and Karen are owners of Back Home Safely, and GreenLight Mobility Franchising which are home safety and accessibility organizations.