The U.S. Census Bureau Community Survey reports the 3.4 million Americans have low vision or no vision (CDC).   The National Federation of the Blind indicates that 130,800 Kentuckians have a visual disability.  Fayette Extension FCS partnered with community partners to plan and provide a symposium for 55 low vision care providers and interested participants featuring the top experts as well as the latest innovations and advances in the field of low vision. Presenters, including physicians, low vision specialists, educators, social workers, provided relevant information on where to find available services, resources and interventions.   Based upon feedback from the Bluegrass Council of the Blind, essential information is not readily available at either the clinical or consumer level even when the need is critical.  Forum topics included Low Vision Optometry; Research Advancements in Retinal Health; Community Resources; and New Technologies for Quality of Life Opportunities.  Post survey data from 35 attending physicians or healthcare workers:  77% have much better understanding of cortical vision loss and its symptoms; 67% gained new understanding on new technologies that exist to support vision loss; 100% will provide information on at least 5 resources available in the community to assist a client with general information regarding vision loss; 79% gained a new skill and will apply content in work; and 100% attending stated symposium met or exceeded expectation and should be offered again. Other partners include BG Council of the Blind, Independence Place Inc., National Federation of the Blind, UK Visual Impairment Program, Radio Eye, VA Medical Center, Visually Impaired Preschool Services and LFUCG Office of Aging Services and Disability Support. This symposium was free thanks to the generosity of Retina Associates of KY.

Quotes:  

“Wonderful opportunity to meet and hear others who serve people with vision disabilities.”

“Presentation was wonderful and there was compassion.”

“Excellent information provided.   I really appreciated the information on eye disease and how it is treated.”

“Speaker Dr. Padmaja Sudhaker really explained vision from aspect that totally opened up my mind to sight and impairments that can affect sight.”

“I am 80 years old and have glaucoma.   Workshops (information) like this make getting older less fearful.”  

“Would love to have this or similar trainings in other areas of state as well such as London-and Eastern KY such as Bell, Harlan counties.”

“Enjoyed those living with vision lose panel-very courageous and honest sharing. Panel of providers very informative!”