Although we researched the information in this guide carefully, we know there will be changes during the life of the guide.  We also know this information is not all inclusive and that additional information is available through other sources such as the Internet.  We like to hear from you so please send us your updates or suggestions.

Special recognition and thanks to the Employee Community Fund of the Boeing Company for funding this edition of the resource guide.

SECTION I:  QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

SECTION II:  HOUSEHOLD HINTS

SECTION III:  LOW VISION CLINICS

1. Santa Rosa Low Vision Clinic
2. Lions Low Vision Center of Texas
3. Brooke Army Medical Center
4. Wilford Hall Medical Center
5. Veterans Administration VIST Team

1. Department of Assistive & Rehabilitative Services (DARS)
2. San Antonio Lighthouse
3. Veterans Administration
4. Alamo Service Connection
5. City of San Antonio Community Initiatives
6. Orientation and Mobility
7. Guide Dogs
8. Prevent Blindness Texas

1. San Antonio Public Library
2. VIAtrans
3. City of San Antonio Senior Services
4. Medical Transportation Services
5. Texas Department of Public Safety
6. Handicapped Parking
7. U.S. Mail
8. Telephone Directory Assistance
9. Telephone and Electric Bill Payment Assistance
10. Banking
11. Federal Income Taxes
12. Social Security
13. Hadley School for the Blind
14. Area Co-Ops
15. Meal Home Delivery
16. Senior Companions
17. Assisted Living
18. NFB-NEWSLINE
19. San Antonio Low Vision Club
20. Owl Radio
21. OASIS
22. Texas State Library

1. Large Print Newsletters
2. Reference Guide
3. Descriptive Video Service

SECTION VII:  ADAPTIVE AIDS FOR SALE

1. Closed Circuit Television Magnifiers
2. Low Vision Catalogs

1. Newspaper
2. Bibles
3. Magazines and Journals
4. Audio Books
5. Printed Books

1. American Council of the Blind
2. American Foundation for the Blind
3. Blinded Veterans Association
4. Lighthouse International
5. Low Vision Gateway
6. Vision Aware

WHAT IS LOW VISION?

Low vision is a visual impairment that interferes with daily activities.  Generally, this is vision loss that cannot be corrected by standard eyeglasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery.

WHAT DOES LEGALLY BLIND MEAN?

In most states, a legally blind person is one who tests 20/200 or less in the better eye after the best correction, or have a visual field which is no greater than 20 degrees.

IS HAVING LOW VISION OR BEING LEGALLY BLIND THE SAME AS BLIND?

Unfortunately, people often confuse "legally blind" with "blind.”  People who are "legally blind" or have “low vision” usually have some usable vision.  Their vision can often be improved with low vision aids.  Blind is the total lack of vision.

HOW CAN LOW VISION PATIENTS BE HELPED?

A low vision examination employs special examination techniques.  Special devices are evaluated for their capacity to improve a patient's visual performance.  Though these aids may not improve vision, they may allow a patient to use their remaining vision to its fullest capacity.  Low vision aids may make things appear larger, appear brighter, or improve contrast.

WHAT TYPE OF THINGS ARE "VISUAL AIDS?”

Visual aids may be special optical lenses, telescopes, magnifiers, visors, filters, reading stands, lamps, large print documents, or other devices that improve a low vision patient's visual performance.  Though standard spectacle corrections may be one type of aid, most visual aids are very different, and may involve some compromise and adaption by the low vision patient.  For example, the visual aid may be more encumbering than spectacles or reading material may have to be held very close.  The degree of compromise varies with each low vision patient.  Most people will readily adapt to an aid that provides some measure of improved visual performance.

WILL LOW VISION AIDS CURE MY VISION?

No!  Using visual aids will not affect the health of your eyes, thus visual aids will not cause your eye problem to get better or worse.  Low vision aids do not cure or restore your vision to normal, but you should be able to perform visual tasks better.

SINCE I HAVE A VISION PROBLEM, CAN I HURT MY EYES BY USING THEM?

Using your vision will not cause it to deteriorate.  In fact, most doctors feel that using eyes helps train the brain to interpret what you see.  Thus, using eyes can help maintain visual sense.

CAN I HURT MY EYES BY HOLDING PRINT TOO CLOSE?

No!  To gain the magnification necessary to see print or other small items, you may have to be very close.  This does not hurt your eyes, although it may take some practice getting used to this different posture.

WHAT LIGHTING IS BEST FOR PEOPLE WITH LOW VISION?

The proper degree of light may vary between various forms of vision loss.  Some people may find they prefer dimmer illumination.  More importantly, the light source you select should be positioned to reduce glare.  Typically, the least amount of glare is from a light positioned over either shoulder.

HOME:

• Keep things orderly.  Organization will help you locate items with much greater ease.

• Adjust the light according to the activity you are doing.  Use more or less light as appropriate.  Use natural daylight when possible.

• Use color contrast when possible.  Place light objects against dark backgrounds and dark objects against light backgrounds.  Use the colors you see best.

• Use brightly colored tape on such household items as the thermostat, electrical outlets, light switches, and drawstrings on drapes.

• Mark the first steps or stairs with tape or paint for better visibility.

• Place furniture in a comfortable "conversational setting."  Chairs placed too far apart may be beyond the visual comfort of the low vision individual.

• Place a plant or bright object near furniture corners to provide contrast with surroundings.

• Avoid patterned tablecloths and upholstery.  They make it difficult to locate objects that may be placed on or near them.

• Purchase large button colored electrical switches with audible feedback as on/off switches for appliances and lights.

• Use talking devices such as phones and blood pressure cuffs.

• Use large print or button devices such measuring tapes or phones.

KITCHEN:

• Use a light colored cup when pouring dark liquids (like coffee).  The light colored cup should be placed on a dark colored background.

• Use a contrasting colored cup placed on a light background when pouring light liquids such as milk.

• Use a dark colored glass when pouring water.  Listen for the sound to change as the cup is being filled.

• Use trays or placemats to create a contrasting background on countertops.  For example, if you have a light colored countertop, and you are pouring coffee into a light colored cup, place the cup on a dark colored tray to help in locating the cup.

• Use a dark cutting board for light foods; a light board for dark food.

• Use brightly colored paint, vinyl, or tape on cupboards, cabinets, drawers, handles, etc, to help locate them.

• Use brightly colored paint or tape on handles of kitchen equipment and utensils.  For example, a bright strip of tape on a measuring cup handle will help locate the handle.

• Use a pot with flat color (rather than aluminum) on the inside.  It may help you see boiling water and foods within the pot.

• Mark kitchen dials with bright contrasting tape, Velcro, or “bump dots.”  Mark the oven dial at the temperature most frequently used, or use several contrasting colors for different temperatures.  Use a tube of "Hi Marks" which is a type of cement that dries into raised beads to identify dial positions on stoves, irons, TVs, etc.  "Hi Marks" can be placed on paper, cloth, wood, metal, and may be washed.

• Use droppers when measuring items such as vanilla.  Or, bend metal measuring spoons so the handle is perpendicular to the spoon.  The spoon can be dipped into the item to be measured without fear of over-pouring or spilling.

• Cover the back burners of your stove unless you absolutely need them.  This will prevent reaching over a hot burner in front.

• Use a timer.  It will be easier than trying to visually check some of the items you are cooking.

• Color code recipe cards.  For example, one color for meat dishes, another for poultry, a third for desserts.

• Rewrite favorite recipes on index cards in large print with a black felt-tip pen.

• Label groceries by rewriting the name of the item on light colored matte paper with a black felt-tip pen and secure the label with a rubber band or tape.

• Keep the kitchen organized!  Be the one in charge of putting groceries and other items away.

• Remind everyone to completely close all kitchen cabinets, cupboards, and drawers.

• Sniff spices before sprinkling to verify you have the correct spice.

• Remove small throw rugs as they are not easily seen and may be a tripping hazard.

EATING:

• Use the contrast rule for setting the table.  Light dishes need dark placemats or tablecloth.  Dark dishes should lie on a light background.  Use solid tablecloths or placemats only.  Patterns can be confusing.

• Place a high intensity lamp by your seat to illuminate your plate.

• Use a clock system to locate food on your plate.  For example, pork at the top of the plate will be at 12 o'clock, peas at the bottom of the plate would be at 6 o'clock.

BATHROOM:

• Use magnifying mirrors to help with shaving and make-up.

• Hang a towel on the wall opposite the bathroom mirror to provide a contrasting background for brushing hair.

• Hang a clear plastic shower curtain to allow more light for showering.

• Put the toothpaste on your finger and then transfer it to the toothbrush.

• Use a rubber backed mat in the tub.

• Put a brightly colored sponge or object in the tub to indicate the depth of the water.

MONEY:

• Fold currency for identification.

  $1.00 Leave flat
  $5.00 Fold in half width-wise
$10.00 Fold in half length-wise
$20.00 Fold in half width-wise and length-wise

• Place currency in different compartments of your wallet or purse.

• Purchase a currency holder.

LAUNDRY:

• Simplify laundry chores by using a system to identify articles of clothing.  A "V" cut in a label could identify a permanent press item, while a corner cut off the label may indicate the item is colorfast.

• Safety pin socks into pairs before washing.

CORRESPONDENCE:

• Use felt tip pens for writing.  Experiment with different colors.

• Consider different shades of paper.  White may be the easiest to read.  Try putting the paper against a different colored background.

• Use paper with thick black lines.

• Purchase a writing frame.

Effective low vision care requires an eye examination of the patient’s visual function.  There are several low vision clinics in San Antonio which provide comprehensive low vision care.

A low vision doctor works with the primary eye doctor, who often makes the referral for low vision care.  Professionals such as orientation and mobility specialists, vision rehabilitation teachers, occupational therapists, and social workers may also be part of the low vision rehabilitation team.

1. SANTA ROSA LOW VISION CLINIC

Dr. Nancy Amir, O.D.
9577 Huebner Road, Building 4
San Antonio, Texas  78240-1688

(210) 228-0030
www.lowvisionclinic.net

2. LIONS LOW VISION CENTER OF TEXAS

Dr. Sandra Fox, O.D.
Allied Health Sciences Building, First Floor
8403 Floyd Curl Drive
San Antonio, Texas  78229-3904

(210) 567-8600
www.uthscsa.edu/eye/llvc.asp

3. BROOKE ARMY MEDICAL CENTER

Military Provider (210) 916-1717
Appointments (210) 916-9900

Brooke Army Medical Center
3851 Roger Brooke Drive, Building 3600
Fort Sam Houston, Texas  78234-6200

4. WILFORD HALL MEDICAL CENTER

Military Provider (210) 292-6582

Wilford Hall Medical Center
2131 Pepperrell Street, Building 3350
Lackland AFB, Texas  78236-5300

5. VETERANS ADMINISTRATION

Veterans Provider (210) 949-8927

Visually Impaired Support Team (Located in VA Dental Clinic)
8410 Datapoint Drive
San Antonio, Texas  78229-3220

1. DEPARTMENT of ASSISTIVE and REHABILITATIVE SERVICE (DARS) DIVISION FOR BLIND SERVICES (DBS)

State Office 800-628-5115
www.dars.state.tx.us/dbs

San Antonio Office (210) 785-2750
Trinity Building
4204 Woodcock Dr., Suite 274
San Antonio, Texas  78228-1324

Programs:

The Vocational Rehabilitation Program is designed for adults whose visual condition limits their ability to begin or continue work. As part of the Vocational Rehabilitation Program, the Division for Blind Services has services for individuals who are deaf/blind.

The Business Enterprises of Texas Program provides employment opportunities.

The Independent Living Rehabilitation Program assists adults who are blind or visually impaired to learn adaptive skills to continue to live independently with vision loss.

The Blind Children's Vocational Discovery and Development Program assists children who are blind and visually impaired to develop their individual potential.  Emphasis is on restoring vision, reducing dependency, and preparing for vocational success.

The Transition Program, which is part of the Vocational Rehabilitation Program, provides educational and career guidance for adolescents and young adults.

The Blindness Education, Screening and Treatment Program wants to help Texans keep their vision healthy.

The Criss Cole Rehabilitation Center (CCRC), located in Austin, is a residential program that offers intensive vocational and independent living training to Texans who are blind.

2. SAN ANTONIO LIGHTHOUSE

800-362-4335
210-533-5195
www.salighthouse.org

2305 Roosevelt Ave
San Antonio, Texas  78210-4920

The San Antonio Lighthouse assists people who are visually impaired and blind to reach their highest level of independence.  There are no direct fees to the individual to participate in any program.  Most participants are referred to the Rehabilitation Center for services by the Division for Blind Services (DBS), the Division of Rehabilitation Services, or the Texas Workforce Commission.

Rehabilitation Services:

The Technology Evaluation and Training program trains visually impaired individuals on the latest technology available, enabling them to participate in academic, employment and independent-living environments.

The Assistive Technology program provides demonstrations, evaluations and training with typing, 10 key calculators, large print, speech recognition software, computers, Braille, note taking devices, scanning software, closed circuit televisions, and more.

The Job Readiness and Placement program helps individuals complete applications, prepare resumes, write cover and thank you letters, and search for jobs.

The Career Guidance program helps people explore occupations, see how their interests and skills fit into jobs, learn about suitable job accommodations, and develop a career plan.  The center specializes in making accommodations for each person’s needs. All materials are available in large print, Braille, and/or cassette tape.

The Vocational Support and Counseling program teaches time management, interpersonal relationships, problem solving, working with difficult people, conflict resolution, effectiveness communications, ethics, goal setting, etiquette, goal setting and dressing for success.

Community Services arranges temporary lodging for participants traveling from out of town.

As an Employer Resource, the San Antonio Lighthouse staff can assist employers to meet the needs of applicants and employees who have a visual impairment or other disabilities.

The San Antonio Lighthouse converts written materials into Large Print and Braille.  Estimates may be obtained over the telephone.

The Senior Center provides independent living skills training including in-home personal care, travel, household management, daily living suggestions, access to computers, and counseling.

The Center also supports active lifestyles by providing opportunities for participants to interact with others in various social, recreational and educational settings such as low vision clubs, peer support groups, arts and crafts, and exercise groups.

The Center offers Caregiver Training as well by educating family members, caregivers, and service providers on blindness awareness through sensitivity training and “Train the Caregiver” presentations.

The Summer Work Skills Program for Youth is a five week program that helps high school graduates with visual impairment or students with other disabilities nearing graduation prepare for future employment.  The program teaches work ethic, time management, social skills, communication skills, grooming/hygiene, and interpersonal skills.

Emma Freeman Scholarships are awarded annually for one or two years of college study.

The Low Vision Products Store offers talking clocks, watches, thermometers, calculators, games, toys, telephones, and other large print items.

3. VETERANS ADMINISTRATION

(210) 949-3523

Visually Impaired Support Team (Located in VA Dental Clinic)
8410 Datapoint Drive
San Antonio, Texas  78229-3220

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides comprehensive services for veterans of the United States.  This includes low vision and blind rehabilitation services.  Eligible veterans are provided a full range of services, including visual aids, to assist them in overcoming the handicap of sight loss.

Services to blind and visually impaired veterans in South Texas are coordinated through the Visual Impairment Services Team (VIST).

The VA also has residential blind rehabilitation services.  The school for South Texas is located in Waco, Texas.  This school is also coordinated through the VIST Team.

4. ALAMO SERVICE CONNECTION

(210) 477-3275
www.alamoserviceconnection.org

8700 Tesoro Dr., Suite 700
San Antonio, Texas  78217-6228

The Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG) provides services for older adults, people with disabilities, and their families in Bexar County through the Alamo Service Connection.

The Alamo Service Connection provides information on:

Public Benefits:  Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, Social Security, Prescription Drug Plans, Managed Care, and Private Health Insurance.

Planning:  Long-term Services and Support, Community Living, Simple Legal Issues, Volunteer, Educational, or Employment Opportunities.

Care:  Home Care Services, Caregiver Support and Relief, Adult Foster Care, Adult Day Care, Assisted Living and Nursing Facility.

Health Needs:  Home Delivered Meals, Senior Nutrition Centers, Prescription Assistance, Medical Equipment, Personal Care Supplies, Behavior Health Resources, Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Programs.

Support:  Utility Assistance, Adaptive Equipment, Transportation, Rental Assistance, Home and Community Services for Persons with Mental Retardation, Services to the Deaf, and Independent Living Skills.

5. CITY OF SAN ANTONIO COMMUNITY INITIATIVES

Senior Services Division
115 Plaza De Armas, Suite 210
San Antonio, Texas  78205-2412
www.sanantonio.gov

Programs:

Comprehensive Nutrition (210) 207-7172
The program, available at 77 nutrition centers, provides elderly persons, 60 years and older, and spouses, in Bexar County, with a nutritionally balanced noon meal in a congregate setting.

Specialized Transportation (210) 207-6680
Supportive Services for the Elderly Project provides specialized, door-to-door para transit services to persons, 60 years and older, primarily for essential medical appointments.  Transportation to appointments, Social Security, Food Stamp and legal assistance offices, the grocery store and the bank is provided when available.  Para transit services are provided free on a space-available basis.

6. ORIENTATION AND MOBILITY (O&M)

People with low vision can travel safely by adapting their vision loss.  O&M training can greatly improve the ability to walk safely in the home and community.  The Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Division for Blind Services and the Department of Veterans Affairs may provide qualified instructors for this service.

7. GUIDE DOGS

A guide dog is an aid to mobility.  Good orientation and mobility skills are an important foundation to successfully working with a guide dog.

The training program with the guide dog is very intense.  Upon completion of training, the guide dog allows a skilled traveler to travel more easily, more quickly, and with greater safety.

Guide Dogs of Texas, Inc.

(210) 366-4081
www.guidedogsoftexas.org

1503 Allena Drive
San Antonio, Texas  78213-4172

8. PREVENT BLINDNESS TEXAS

SAN ANTONIO/SOUTH TEXAS BRANCH
(Located at the Vision Center at Haven for Hope)

(210) 220-2360
www.preventblindness.org/tx

1 Haven for Hope Way, Building One, Suite 200
San Antonio, Texas  78207-1108

Major Programs:

• Vision screening for all ages with emphasis on preschool and elementary school age children.

• "Glaucoma Alert" glaucoma screening for people over the age of forty.

• "Partners in Prevention" and “Sight for Students” assisting people in financial need to get eye examinations and eyeglasses.

• Education and information services concerning eye health, eye safety, and eye disease.

1. SAN ANTONIO PUBLIC LIBRARY

(210) 207-2500
www.mysapl.org

600 Soledad Street
San Antonio, Texas 78205-1208

The San Antonio Public Library has many useful aids for low vision patrons.  Some of the services available are:

Materials-By-Mail
Materials are available through the mail for homebound individuals.

Audio Books
The library has a large collection of audio books in a variety of formats.  These include books on CD’s and tapes and downloadable audio books.

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)
CCTVs are available at all locations of the San Antonio Public Library.  These devices allow material to be greatly magnified onto a monitor.  Books, letters, pictures etc. can all be magnified by using these devices.

Monomouse
This is a portable CCTV device that looks like a computer mouse.  It plugs into a standard television set.  Whatever you roll the mouse over is magnified onto the TV screen.  These devices can be placed on hold like a book and sent to any branch for pickup.

Computer Terminals for the Visually Impaired
Jaws, OpenBook, ZoomText, or Magic software is available on a computer at most library locations.  The JAWS and OpenBook software can be used to access the Internet, use MS Office products and, with the use of a scanner, listen to printed material such as books or magazines.  ZoomText and Magic software allow a user to magnify the material on the computer screen up to 16 times its original size.

Large Type Books
A large collection of large type books are available in the library system.  These titles can be sent to any of our branches and mailed out to homebound patrons.

Descriptive Videos
These VHS tapes are the same as ordinary VHS recordings except that they have an additional audio track which features a narrator subtly describing the action which is taking place.  This allows an individual with a visual disability the opportunity to more fully enjoy the video experience.

2. VIAtrans PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Specialized Transportation

Apply for services (210) 362-2140
www.viainfo.net/AccessibleService/AccessibleServiceMain.aspx

VIAtrans is San Antonio's specialized public transportation service for riders with special needs.  If you meet the definition of legal blindness and have a functional impairment, you may qualify for this free service.  If you are not legally blind, you may qualify for a reduced discount on regular city buses (this is automatically given to anyone over 65 years old anyway).

3. CITY OF SAN ANTONIO SENIOR SERVICES

Specialized Transportation

(210) 207-6680

Door-to-door transportation is provided to individuals 60 years of age and older for medical appointments, food stamps, legal aid, social security offices, grocery shopping, and banking.  Reservations must be made three to ten business days in advance.  One escort may accompany the rider.  Services are available at no charge within Bexar County.  Donations are accepted but not necessary.

4. MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM

Specialized Transportation for Medicaid Enrollees

800-633-8747

Provide transportation to Medicaid health care provider.

5. TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Driving with low vision

Drivers License Office
6502 South New Braunfels Ave
San Antonio, Texas  78223-3014

(210) 531-2240
www.txdps.state.tx.us

The Texas Department of Public Safety, Driver's License Division, can provide information regarding visual standards.

Driving depends on many visual skills that are not related to an eye chart.  Depending on overall visual performance, a person with moderate vision loss can earn driving privileges.  Before any license would be issued, the low vision person would have a stringent road test that carefully tested his or her capacity to drive safely.  Once issued, the license could have a number of restrictions.

6. HANDICAPPED PARKING

(210) 335-2251
www.txdmv.gov/vehicles/drivers/disabled.htm

Any family that has a member with severe vision loss may qualify to have a special parking permit for the handicapped.  A person's medical condition must meet the legal definition of a disability to qualify.  "Disability" means a condition in which a person has:

• Visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correcting lenses.

• Visual acuity of more than 20/200 but with a limited field of vision in which the widest diameter of the visual field is an angle of 20 degrees or less.

• Mobility problems that substantially impair a person's ability to move around.

You may apply for your disabled parking permit or obtain further information at your nearest Bexar County Tax Assessor Office.

7. U.S. MAIL

(210) 368-8315
www.usps.com

The U. S. Postal Service provides limited free postal service for the blind.  Publication #347 "Mailing Free Matter for Blind and Visually Handicapped Persons" is available on-line or at the post office.  This booklet has questions and answers on eligibility, restrictions, etc.

8. TELEPHONE DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE

Many telephone providers offer free directory assistance to qualified customers.  Residential information may be obtained at 800-373-3411.  Please contact your telephone provider for more information.

9. TELEPHONE AND ELECTRIC BILL PAYMENT ASSISTANCE

866-454-8387
www.puc.state.tx.us/ocp/assist/lowincasst.cfm

Discounts on monthly telephone and electric bills are available for qualified customers.

10. BANKING

Many banks offer special checkbooks that are designed to ease check writing.  The checkbooks may be in large print, embossed print, or utilize a plastic check-writing guide.  Contact your bank if you would like more information.

11. FEDERAL INCOME TAXES

Internal Revenue Service

800-829-1040
www.irs.gov

If your best corrected visual acuity is 20/200 or less in the better eye, or your field of vision is 20 degrees or less, you are eligible for an additional exemption on your federal income tax return.  You must attach to your return each year a certified statement from a Doctor of Optometry or Ophthalmology.

If this eye condition will never improve beyond these standards, the certified statement should state this opinion.  When the condition is permanent, you need only include the certified statement once, but on all future returns, you must include a statement referring to it.

12. SOCIAL SECURITY

800-772-1213
www.socialsecurity.gov/pgm/links_ssi.htm

Social Security (SS) pays benefits to people who are blind under two programs:  the Social Security disability insurance program and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.  The medical rules to validate whether you are blind are the same for each program.  Other rules are different for each program.

You may qualify for Social Security or SSI disability benefits if you are considered “legally blind.”  SS considers you to be legally blind if your vision cannot be corrected to better than 20/200 in your better eye, or if your visual field is 20 degrees or less in your better eye.  If your vision does not meet the legal definition of blindness, you may still qualify for disability benefits if your vision problems alone or combined with other health problems prevent you from working.

For more information about Social Security disability benefits, contact Social Security to get Disability Benefits (Publication No. 05-10029).  This booklet is also available in Braille.

Social Security disability benefits are not retroactive, so it is important to apply for them immediately after qualifying.

13. HADLEY SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND

Tuition-Free Distance Education

800-323-4238
www.hadley.edu

700 Elm Street
Winnetka, Illinois 60093-2554

The Hadley School for the Blind is a distance education school and offers more than 100 courses in a variety of different media formats.  The custom, one-on-one service allows students to work at-their-own-pace and benefit from Hadley’s expertise regardless of where they live.

Programs:

Academic and High School Studies:  Features academic courses and electives for students who seek to earn a high school diploma.  Students can earn high school credit, which is easily transferred to their local schools, or earn a diploma through Hadley.

Adult Continuing Education Studies:  Covers topics ranging from Braille and academic studies to independent living, life adjustment, technology and recreation.

Family Education Program:  Offers courses of interest to parents of blind children and family members of blind adults.  Focuses on independent living, technology, advocacy and adjustment to blindness issues.  Topics include child development, independent living and Braille instruction.

Hadley School for Professional Studies:  Offers parents, family members, caregivers, and professionals information and guidance on working with visually impaired people.

14. AREA CO-OPS

San Antonio has several co-ops that may provide assistance to the elderly.  This includes services such as transportation, grocery deliveries, community lunches and more.  Find one serving your local area at the web site below:

lowvisionclinic.net/transportation/transportation.php

15. MEAL HOME DELIVERY

Meals on Wheels

(210) 735-5115
www.christianseniorservices.org

Christian Senior Services
4306 NW Loop 410
San Antonio, Texas  78229-5140

Delivery of meals to home bound seniors over the age of 60.

Schwan’s Frozen Foods

888-724-9267
www.schwans.com

115 W College Drive
Marshall, MN 56258-1747

Large choice of frozen foods can be purchased and delivered to your home.

Grocery2me

(210) 286-5757
www.grocery2me.com

Purchases and delivers groceries to your home for a fee.

16. SENIOR COMPANIONS

(210) 735-5115
www.christianseniorservices.org

Christian Senior Services
4306 NW Loop 410
San Antonio, Texas  78229-5140

Companionship and personal assistance provided by senior volunteers to home bound seniors.

17. ASSISTED LIVING

(210) 477-3275
www.alamoserviceconnection.org

Alamo Service Center
8700 Tesoro Drive, Suite 700
San Antonio, Texas  78217-6228

The ASC can provide information on the many assisted living and retirement communities throughout the city.

19. SAN ANTONIO LOW VISION CLUB

Service of Low Vision Resource Center
(210) 829-4223
www.lowvisionclub.org

The San Antonio Low Vision Club has a membership of more than 1,000 area residents.  Its objective is to assist those experiencing significantly reduced or total vision loss to discover ways to continue daily activities and maintain their independence.

Monthly meetings include presentations designed to keep members informed about the latest medical research into eye diseases and how local resources can assist them.  Members also enjoy social functions several times a year.

San Antonio Low Vision Resource Center is a certified non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.  There is no fee to join, but donations are appreciated.

20. OWL RADIO

Radio Reading Service

(210) 829-4223
www.owlradio.org

Low Vision Resource Center
1250 N E Loop 410, Suite 525
San Antonio, Texas  78209-1524

Owl Radio is a community service for area residents who are unable to read newspapers or other printed information.  It is brought to you by The Low Vision Resource Center, the San Antonio Express-News, and Texas Public Radio.  Owl Radio is staffed mainly by volunteers with one full-time employee and one part-time assistant.

Owl Radio volunteers read the Express-News for three hours daily.  The remainder of programming for the 24 hour service is provided by Taping for the Blind in Houston.  Transmissions can be picked up within 40 to 50 miles from the transmitter located near Helotes.

Persons wishing to participate should obtain an Owl Radio application.  There is no charge, but a $25 tax deductible donation to cover the cost of the radio is appreciated.

21. OASIS

(210) 242-5788
www.oasisnet.org

6161 NW Loop 410
San Antonio, Texas  78238-3302

Offer classes for a fee and “Person to Person” peer support for older adults going through normal life changes.

22. TEXAS TALKING BOOKS

800-252-9605
512-463-5458
www.texastalkingbooks.org

Texas State Library
PO Box 12927
Austin, Texas  78711-2927

Provides free library service to Texans of all ages who are unable to read standard print material due to visual, physical, or reading disabilities-whether permanent or temporary.  Books and magazines are available in different formats, mainly on cassette, but also in Braille and large print.  Books are delivered to your home and returned through the mail free of charge.  The program offers more than 80,000 titles in fiction and nonfiction, plus 80 national magazines for adults and children.

1. LARGE PRINT NEWSLETTERS

The Braille Forum Newsletter

800-424-8666
www.acb.org

1155 15th Street NW, Suite 1004
Washington, DC 20005

Available in large print, Braille, audio computer disk, or e-mail.

Sharing Solutions Newsletter

800-829-0500
www.lighthouse.org/news-events/newsletters-publications/

2. REFERENCE GUIDE

Senior Directory

800-955-8510
www.seniordirectory.com
(available free at numerous locations)

Provides a broad spectrum of information for seniors and disabled individuals.

3. DESCRIPTIVE VIDEO SERVICE (DVS)

Those with low vision who have difficulty seeing the visual images on film may benefit from films that have been dubbed with a narration that describes the visual moments on the film.  The narration does not interfere with the movie's sound track.  Thus, all the original sound and words within the film remain, while a descriptive narration brings the film's images to life.

Many films are available with DVS including titles such as Toy Story, Forrest Gump, and Home Alone.

Limited DVS television programs are available on KLRN-TV (PBS).  They include Nova and American Playhouse.  To view DVS programs on KLRN-TV, the SAP (Secondary Audio Program) switch must be activated on your TV or VCR.  DVS programs are identified in the Sunday San Antonio Express-News TV schedule.

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) provides magnification that far exceeds that of optical magnifiers, and for some patients these devices may be essential.  Currently, several manufacturers offer a variety of CCTV devices that are especially designed for patients with low vision.

If your low vision provider prescribes a CCTV device, most companies who offer these systems will provide a demonstration of their product in the patient's home.  The demonstration should be offered without cost or obligation.

Should your degree of low vision make you a candidate for a CCTV system, there are many possible suppliers.  Ask your low vision provider for further advice regarding the possible CCTV options.  CCTVs can be very expensive.  The price is often dependent on the system's versatility, durability, and ease of operation.

Area distributors include:

Christal Vision
106 Evans Oak Lane
San Antonio, Texas  78260-7703
(210) 666-0700
www.christal-vision.com

Kewing Enterprises
2005 Short Summer Drive
Austin, Texas  78754-5857
(512) 340-0062
www.kewing.com

2. LOW VISION CATALOGS

There are many low vision devices available to improve functioning of a person with low vision.

OPTICAL DEVICES are lenses including strong reading glasses or microscopes, hand and stand magnifiers, telescopes, prisms, and tints or filters.

NON-OPTICAL DEVICES include enlarged items such as large print playing cards, big eye needles, and large print watches, reading stands, lamps to provide proper illumination, signature guides, and "talking" devices such as "talking watches."

ELECTRO-OPTICAL DEVICES are magnification systems that utilize electronic enlargement rather than lens magnification, and include CCTV's large print computer software, and head mounted cameras such as the V Max.

A few sources are listed below:

Independent Living Aids
PO Box 9022
Hicksville, NY  11802-9022
800-537-2118
www.independentliving.com

Carolyn’s Low Vision Products
PO Box 14577
Bradenton, FL  34280-4577
800-648-2266
www.carolynscatalog.com

Daily Living Solutions
3030 Enterprise Court, Suite D
Vista, CA  92081-8358
866-999-9188
www.shoplowvision.com

LS & S Group
PO Box 673
Northbrook, IL  60065-0673
800-468-4789
www.lssproducts.com

Maxiaids
42 Executive Boulevard
Farmingdale, NY  11735-4710
800-522-6294
www.maxiaids.com

Sight Connection
9709 3rd Ave NE, Suite 100
Seattle, WA  98115-2027
800-458-4888
www.sightconnection.com

1. NEWSPAPER

The New York Times Weekly
800-631-2580
www.nytimes.com

Large Print Newspaper $85.80 per year/1 per week

2. BIBLES

Bibles are provided in a variety of languages.  They are available in print or audio cassette.

Aurora Ministries
(941) 748-3031
www.auroraministries.org

Audio Bibles for the Blind
(941) 748-3031
www.audiobiblesfortheblind.org
PO Box 621
Bradenton, FL  34206-0621

Lutheran Braille Workers, Inc.
909-795-8977
909-795-8977
www.lbwinc.org
13471 California Street
PO Box 5000
Yucaipa, CA  92399-1450

3. MAGAZINES AND JOURNALS

Dialogue Magazine
800-860-4224
www.blindskills.com
PO Box 5181
Salem, OR   97304-0181
Braille, cassette, large print, e-mail

Guideposts Magazine
800-431-2344
www.guidepostsmag.com
Cassette or large print

Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness
800-232-3044
www.afb.org/jvib.asp

4. AUDIOBOOKS

Audio Versions
800-628-6145
www.audiodivisions.com

Books on Tape
800-733-3000
www.booksontape.com

Recorded Books
800-638-1304
www.recordedbooks.com

5. PRINTED BOOKS

Read How You Want
(917) 434-6144
www.readhowyouwant.com
Books in accessible formats

1. AMERICAN COUNCIL OF THE BLIND

800-424-8666
202-467-5081
www.acb.org
2200 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 650
Arlington, VA  22201-3354

Alamo Council of the Blind (Affiliate of American Council of the Blind)
(210) 492-4420
9639 Orchid Meadows
San Antonio, Texas  78250-1722

2. AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR THE BLIND

800-232-5463
212-502-7600
www.afb.org

11 Penn Plaza, Suite 300
New York, New York 10001

3. BLINDED VETERANS ASSOCIATION

800-669-7079
www.bva.org
477 H Street NW
Washington, DC  20001-2617

South Texas Regional Group
(210) 825-8809

4. LIGHTHOUSE INTERNATIONAL

800-829-0500
212-821-9200
www.lighthouse.org
111 E 59th Street
New York, NY 10022-1202

5. LOW VISION GATEWAY
www.lowvision.org
Gateway to many websites

6. VISION AWARE
www.visionaware.org
Self help website

Many other associations, foundations, and websites can be located on the Internet.