| Prevention of Blindness |
| Education Programs |
| Preschool Screenings |
| Adult Vision Screenings |
| Functional Vision Clinic |
| Remedial Eye Care |
| Additional Resources |
| Education Programs |
|
It is estimated that 50% of blindness is preventable. Through education and public awareness programs, we promote the importance of good eye health and safety as well as share information about potentially blinding eye conditions and diseases. Our “Growing Older with Good Vision” program for adults shares important information about signs and symptoms of various eye diseases and conditions, as well as ways to keep and make the most out of the vision you have. We offer many programs for children of all ages, which include Treasure in Sight, Play it Safe and Vision Quest. Sensitivity trainings give participants an opportunity to wear low vision simulator goggles while completing a daily living skill. Participants may be asked to tell the time, read a newspaper, write a grocery list or pour a glass of water. We do not want to leave the participants with the feeling of pity or helplessness; therefore we demonstrate various low vision products that promote independence. This has been said to be “a very educational and enlightening experience.” Blindness Awareness offers tips on how to appropriately assist a person who is blind. We will demonstrate how to properly lead someone who is blind as well as highlight things to remember when offering your assistance. Remember …the person is always first and then the disability! |
|
|
Preschool Screenings |
| Approximately one in every ten preschoolers and one in every four school aged students have an undetected vision problem. We know that early intervention is crucial in the fight against blindness; therefore one of our main goals is to provide free screenings for children of all ages. Our prevention of blindness team has been certified by and follows the guidelines established by the PA Association of the Blind. If children fail the screening or have signs or symptoms of a visual impairment, they are referred for a complete eye exam by an eye care professional. Visual problems left untreated can result in significant vision loss or blindness which can impact all aspects of life. Some Signs and Symptoms to Watch for in Children:
|
Your Child May Say:
|
| Return to the Top of the Page |
|
|
Adult Vision Screenings |
| One in every six adults is believed to have some type of undetected visual impairment. Our Prevention of Blindness Team works with various community organizations and agencies to provide opportunities for individuals to receive a free vision screening. This screening can include: visual acuity, color perception, horizontal fields, depth perception and intraocular pressures. Participants who fail the screening or who have concerning signs or symptoms are referred for a complete eye exam by an eye care professional. We suggest that you visit your eye doctor once every two years and diabetics once every year for a comprehensive eye exam (dilation and intraocular pressures). The best time for an eye exam is before you notice any symptoms. Signs and Symptoms in Adults:
|
| Return to the Top of the Page |
|
|
Functional Vision Clinic |
| Our Functional Vision Clinic provides financially eligible children an opportunity to receive a complete eye examination by a pediatric optometry specialist. Eyesight is the basic ability to see; vision is the ability to identify, interpret, and comprehend what is seen. A child’s eyesight may test normal with standard testing, yet visual skills may be seriously impaired. The qualified staff at the clinic understands and recognizes functional vision problems. |
| Return to the Top of the Page |
|
|
Remedial Eye Care |
| Our Remedial Eye Care Program is designed to assist low income individuals in obtaining eye exams and glasses. Through contracts with local eye care providers, a pair of eyeglasses and/or an eye exam can be provided at a reduced cost to those in need. Applications are available in our office Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. We are located at 2121 Reach Road in Williamsport. |
| Return to the Top of the Page |
|
|
Additional Resources |
| American Foundation for the Blind Website National Eye Institute Website LowVision.org List of National (USA) Associations |
| Return to the Top of the Page |
| Return to the Low Vision Page |