Center For The Blind And Visually Impaired

I finally am getting things started with the state dept. of the blind, and one of the things they have suggested is to go to a rehabilitation center to learn independent living skills, get vocational rehab, and to learn how to use assistive technologies such as JAWS.

I am considering it, but I know very little about rehab centers.

As background for those who may not know, I am legally blind (my left eye sees ~1.5 feet and my right ~3 feet. This has been a gradual increase from light and dark perception only at the very beginning, then a decrease from a brief period of 20/60 in right eye and 20/200 in left...most of the decrease due to glaucoma spikes, I think. So now, I struggle to read even very large print on my computer (I am writing this in size 73, high contrast, and it is still very fuzzy...the equivalent, if not written by my own hand, takes a very long time for me to read anything). Though I manage well with things around me due to an assistant and assistive products such as stick-on bumps and a handheld magnifying device, it is becoming increasingly difficult for me to use the magnifying device, and what I could do before with my residual vision before, I am finding more and more difficult...

Anyway, so that's why I am considering going to a rehab center. They said that the program would be 1-4 weeks, and if I need it, I can go to another rehab center with a more in-depth program...the rehab center is 2 hours away, but is a live-in only...my husband is just returned from Iraq a week and a half ago, so I don't really want to part with him again after being apart for 14 months...

Anyone have a professional or experience-based opinion on rresidential rehab for blind and visually impaired versus classes during the day (transportation is a bit of a problem for us right now with our only car on the fritz, so maybe live-in is the best option, but...I'm not sure)?
I didn't need a lecture on needing to take care of my eyes. I follow my medication schedule to the T, don't overstrain my eyes, and I have been seeing specialists from the first month.

You have bad grammar, bad spelling, and you lecture me. That's nice that you have perfect vision...I never did, and doubt I ever will. Thanks for waving that in my face and bragging.

If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all.

Hi. I'm somewhat low vision. No left perphial in both eyes. I live in San Francisco and thees a center for the blind. I'll say the benefits would be learning about new and better equipment that can help you. I dnt see how it could be a bad thing at all. I myself am considering reading braille

2008-12-30 20:38:16 by Jewel

Arizona Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ACBVI) has been providing services for individuals since 1947. ACBVI is committed to &quot ...

I was looking at my options for rehabilitation centers (for blind and visually impaired). The state does a one-week program that seems like it has a lot to cover in such a short time...how much help can it really do in one week?

I was looking at the NFB rehab centers, which I've heard are really great (though that's 6 months to a year!)...if I went to one of them, would I have to pay for it myself, would insurance cover it (I have Tricare Prime through my husband being Army), or is there some other coverage? I mean, that's $3,600 a month! There's no way I could go if I had to pay it out of pocket.

How is this done?

I believe the NFB offers grants and financial aid for people interested in attending these programs. Contact the center for the blind you're considering to get more information about this.

2009-01-10 23:41:52 by Jewel

Price: $49.99 $39.95

Further, "Positive contrast" is the case of a light object on a dark background such as white print on a black field. In our case, we offer brilliant yellow keys contrast against a black keyboard and black lettering which has proved to be our most popular custom keyboard model for individuals with vision problems. . With letter characters larger than usual and command keys in a larger bolder font, these high-contrast keys can really help those who have trouble seeing keyboards. Perfect for schools, special needs departments and libraries, as well as companies.. With letter characters larger than usual and command keys in a larger bolder font, these high-contrast keys can really help those who have trouble seeing keyboards. Perfect for schools, special needs departments and libraries, as well as companies.
Large Print Keyboards are perfect for anybody who has a hard time seeing the letters on their computer keyboards. They are also great for anyone who works in low light conditions or is learning to type. Our Large Print Keyboards come in a variety of colors including our specialty keyboard designed with yellow keys and black type - a scientifically proven combination that helps those with certain types of visual impairment. English Large Print keyboard provides superior comfort without forcing you to relearn how to type; * The USB big print computer keyboard is designed for those who have a hard time seeing the Stylish keyboard with Sturdy keys show in picture is for demonstartion purposes.
Highly visible large print letters on keycaps * One-touch Internet and email hot keys * One-touch media hot keys Who Uses Large Print Keyboards? * Individuals * Senior Centers * Schools * Libraries * Companies, organizations and government agencies Our Large Print Keyboards are used to accommodate assistive technology adaptations in the workplace.

my mother is not blind, she just doesn't have center vision. She does however enjoy playing video games. She has played the super Nintendo, and Sims 2 game. She has mentioned that 3D games are a little difficult to navigate her way through. She wants a game system for her house for when people come over, but also for herself. can you tell me which system would be the best for maybe role playing? something that is not too fast paced.

I am not sure what are best for visual impairments, but Xbox 360 has great RPG titles out there. Some are in a more vast 3D world as others aren't quite as vast and more linear. My favorites are Lost Odyssey and Blue Dragon (Turn-Based). Which are good for people who like a slow paced game.

There are also other RPG's that are real time, faster pace but still good as well. These are Mass Effect and Phantasy Star. There are othe titles also, but just too many to mention. Many more RPG titles are coming out, so for a fresh game, you can look for the 360 to deliver.

I would wait for the 60GB pro to come out or get the Elite as they have seemed to fix the dreaded problem we all hear with the Xbox 360's. But I wouldn't trade Xbox 360 for nothing else, my kids and I love it.

May also want to look at a PS3 simply because of the blu-ray, more entertainment in one system. They also have some good RPG's, just not as many. I, myself plan to buy a PS3 for the blu-ray and a few games not on the 360.


Good Luck in your decision!

2008-08-04 18:23:29 by auther89

Dual speakers with Loud and Extra Loud settings
Clear large type lighted date day time display
Record up to 6 alarms in your own voice

I found out from the rehab centre that I likely won't get to start classes there until August, and I'm going out of my mind with boredom around here because I don't have transportation and my husband is non-supportive...I end up doing housework, watching tv, and going on the computer all day, if not sleeping. I hate it. So, I thought maybe I'd look into other programs to go to in the meantime. Someone had mentioned Camp Dogwood, which is a camp sponsored by the Lion's Club here in NC for the blind and visually impaired. It sounded cool, and I'd like to read more about it. The rehab centre did give me some information about it, but it's all in print, not Braille or cassette, so I have to ask my husband to read it (and he doesn't want to be inconvenienced to sit there and read for me) or wait until my assistant comes and we have more important things to do. I want to do it for myself, and i can do that on-line. Does anyone know the website for the camp?

I don't think the info is accessible for a screen-reader. The buildings look modern and up-to-date. Lots of water.

Camp Dogwood, located on Lake Norman in Catawba County, was started in 1967. It is owned and operated by the North Carolina Lions Foundation. The 41 acre campus is maintained as a resort facility for the blind and visually impaired. Although the facility and programs are designed for adults, some separate sessions have recently been added for youth programs. In recent years deaf and hearing impaired campers have also been accepted.

Twelve six-day sessions of camp are operated during the summer. During summer camp, the qualified permanent staff is assisted by college student counselors. A nurse is on staff to take care of the medical needs of the campers and to dispense medications as needed.

The camp was constructed to provide an enriching camping experience with the safety and welfare of the camper in mind. All buildings are accessible to the handicapped. Camp Dogwood provides an excellent camping experience for both the independently mobile individual and the camper with mobility assistance needs.

Camp Dogwood has up-to-date facilities to provide campers with the best in care and safety. Accommodations include dormitory style rooms, motel like rooms, and family cotteges. The campus is comfortable, functional and attractive for both summer and use through out the year. Many area companies use Camp Dogwood facilities during the off season for meetings and functions.

If your are interested in holding your company or group function at Camp Dogwood, you may contact NCLF by calling (800) 662-7401

Campers are encouraged to participate in varied activities including swimming, horseback riding, arts and crafts, boating, water skiing, nature trail hiking, hay rides, talent night performances, and plenty of socializing. Camp Dogwood provides a vacation experience while offering campers the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities.

North Carolina Lions Foundation
7050 Camp Dogwood Drive
PO Box 39
Sherrills Ford NC 28673
Telephone: 828-478-2135
WATS Line: 1-800-662-7401
FAX Number: 828-478-4419
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 - 5:00

http://www.blindgolf.com/news_2004_fall. htm#Camp%20Dogwood

NORTH CAROLINA



Camp Dogwood

Contact Information: (points of contact change each year)

Helen Keller National Center
Monika Werner McJannet, Regional Representative
404-766-9625 Voice 2820 TTY
mw4hknc@aol.com
www.nclf.org (for information on the facilities only)

Camp Dogwood is a camp for deaf-blind adults who reside in North Carolina. It is sponsored by the North Carolina Lions’ Foundation. Typically held on two different long weekends in September, the camp is for North Carolina residents. SSPs are recruited from across the country, however. Previously held in one weekend, the camp expanded to accommodate the numbers of people who wanted to attend. It is located on Lake Norman in Catawba County, near Hickory, NC. Activities include horseback riding, swimming, arts and crafts, boating, nature trail hiking, hay rides, talent nights, and socialization. All facilities are accessible and Camp Dogwood provides a fine camping experience for mobile individuals and campers with mobility assistance needs. Persons responsible for organizing this event change each year, so consult website for general information or the HKNC regional representative for dates and current contact information.



North Carolina Deaf-Blind Associates (NCDBA) Mini-Conference

Contact Information:
North Carolina Deaf-Blind Associates (NCDBA)
(points of contact change each year)

Helen Keller National Center
Monika Werner McJannet, Regional Representative
404-766-9625 Voice 2820 TTY
mw4hknc@aol.com
www.ncdba.org

NCDBA sponsors this annual event for deaf-blind residents of North Carolina. The format is similar to a “mini” AADB conference. The location of the event changes each year but is usually held in the springtime. Persons responsible for organizing this event change each year, so consult website for general information or the HKNC regional representative for dates and current contact information.

2009-03-31 19:19:10 by Jewel

Hi, I work at the Writing Center of my university and we are attempting to make some changes to our office. One thing we are hoping to achieve is to make our center more accomodating for students who are disabled. We are accessible for those who rely on wheelchairs; however, we are more concerened with students who are deaf, blind, ect. In our center students come in with their papers and review them with a tutor by reading the paper out loud and occasionally stopping to discuss the paper. We do have computers for students to use and we are next to a computer lab. Could anyone who is familiar with common disabilities recommend programs for our computers and other changes we can make to make our center more student friendly? Even listing a website of suggested accommodations would be great! The ones I've thought of so far myself- installing programs on the computer that aid the visually impaired by magnifying the screen or that read the paper out loud.

Any help is appreciated, thank you!
Thanks for the links- it's great to see what other schools offer! :) Great way to compare what we have and don't have.

Check out what other colleges offer:

University of Chicago: http://disabilities.uchicago.edu/accommo dation/

UC - Berkeley: http://acads.chance.berkeley.edu/CAG/CAG _Rights_and_Responsibili.shtml

2009-02-02 13:58:31 by reluctantlyhuman