IN PERSON Supporting People Who Are Blind/Low Vision in OPWDD Services
Supporting People Who Are Blind/Low Vision in OPWDD Services
October 30th 10am-1pm
Members $200/Non Members $275
In person at IAC
This immersive three‑hour presentation provides attendees with exposure to practical, hands‑on skills to better support individuals who are blind, low vision, and those who are both visually impaired and non‑verbal. Designed for clinicians, frontline managers, and program administrators, the session blends foundational knowledge with real‑world practice to help providers understand the scope of services that can be provided.
Participants will rotate through interactive learning stations led by HKSB specialists, gaining exposure to:
Orientation & Mobility Skills Learn how individuals who are blind/low vision navigate safely and independently. Explore human guide techniques, environmental cues, tactile landmarks, and strategies for supporting travel within homes, day programs, and community settings.
Assistive Technology for Access and Independence Experience screen readers, magnification software, adaptive mobile phone features, and other accessible tools that promote communication, learning, and daily living. Participants will have the opportunity to try devices and apps commonly used by people with visual impairments.
Communication & Choice‑Making for Individuals Who Are Blind/Low Vision and Non‑Verbal Discover communication approaches that are person‑centered and adapted to each person’s specific visual impairment. This station highlights tactile symbols, object cues, and methods for supporting meaningful choice‑making when vision and verbal communication are limited.
Overview of Blind/Low Vision Diagnoses and Etiologies Gain a clear, approachable understanding of common visual impairments, their causes, functional impacts, and considerations for OPWDD environments. This segment helps staff recognize how different conditions influence mobility, communication, and daily support needs.
Throughout the presentation, HKSB will also provide an overview of the comprehensive services available, both to individuals and agencies, which include low vision evaluations, rehabilitation training, assistive technology instruction, orientation and mobility services, and professional consultation.