Frequently Asked Questions

Glaucoma

If you notice rainbow colored halos around lights, notify your eye doctor.
If there is glaucoma or diabetes in the family, every family member should be seen by
an eye doctor at least once every two years.
If you have glaucoma, consult your ophthalmologist before going on any liquid diets.

When Meeting a Blind Person

Ask blind people if they need help; don't assume they do. If they do, they will tell you how to help.
If you live or work with a blind person, do not leave doors ajar.
Always talk directly to blind people, not through their companions.
When talking to a blind person don't yell.
Identify yourself when entering a room if a blind person is present.
Give directions as clearly as possible.
Remember that a guide dog is a working dog, not a pet! DO NOT PET! It diverts the dog's attention.
Read the menu and prices to blind people when eating out. Tell them the position of food on their plate, and help them cut their meat if desired.
Look at people who are blind as individuals with interests and needs similar to your own.
Do not hesitate to use the words "blind" and "see" when talking to a person who is blind.

General

Proper lighting is a must for all visual tasks.
Using contrasting colors can help you distinguish one object from another. (Example: Dark tablecloth with white plates.)
Continue to see your eye doctor even after vision loss to help prevent future problems.

Low Vision

Orientation And Mobility

Plan your route thoroughly before starting out; use landmarks and reference points.
Mark the edges of the steps a bright color to improve visibility.
Take the arm of a sighted person assisting you; rather than letting him/her push you. The motion of his/her body will tell you what to do.

Rehabilitation Teaching

Bold-lined writing paper will help you stay on line while writing.
Phone numbers or recipes can be written in Large Print or recorded on tape for easy access.
Place entire outfits together on one hanger if color identification is a problem.

Social Work