The Sight Center Of Northwest Pennsylvania

Vision rehabilitation: the goal of vision rehabilitation is to improve quality of life in people living with vision loss. The center provides low vision examinations and professional follow-up to adults and children with reduced vision to maintain independence. Research states that 1 out of 3 older adults are diagnosed with a progressive eye disease which affects their vision and makes it difficult to complete activities of daily living independently. Recruitment efforts for a low vision optometrist have led us to a new partnership. This has enabled the center to have limited access to a low vision specialist and begin to see patients again and provide access to assistive technology to help improve the quality of life for those with low vision in our community. Patients referred for low vision are offered a ride to one of two low vision specialists in the surrounding area. We hope to grow this partnership to provide additional support for this much needed service at our facility.

Blindness services and social support: in support of its mission to promote independence in fy2024, the sight center provided 944 hours of life skills education, which continues to increase year over year. We delivered 277 hours of support services and 3,280 hours of transportation services. Our client census has grown to 201 individuals who receive ongoing supportive services. Blind and low vision youngsters participate in envision sports camp, a week-long experience with 80+ blind and low vision youth. It is a highlight for the kids and the sight center staff, who are onsite to volunteer and cheer them on. The center provides modest financial support for the program.our wednesday club continues to engage members in social, education, and well-being related activities. Enthusiasm has significantly increased as bonds of friendship are built, as well as engaging in relevant topics, speakers, and fun. Our speaker's series continues to expand and is very well attended. The year's topics included eye health and low-cost technology, both promoting independence and quality of life. Sight center drivers and social service providers continue to visit and assist our older blind and visually impaired clients and help them meet their independence, medical and social needs. Clients of the sight center are evaluated for changing needs and challenges as they occur, and service plans are reviewed and updated with clients individually on an annual basis. Referrals are made to appropriate community service programs and private service providers, as appropriate.