Part of our Wellness for Independence® programs

Low Vision Wellness

Manage the physical and emotional challenges that come with having low vision.

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Benefits

It is a natural part of ageing that your vision can decline but that doesn’t mean you have to stop doing the things you love.

Our Low Vision Wellness program is led by qualified health professionals who help you to have any vision concerns assessed and diagnosed as early as possible. We also give you the tips and tools to manage your eye health to ensure you stay active, social and living independently in your home.

Designed for older people who have low vision or may be at risk of developing a vision-impairing eye condition, the program also addresses the emotional challenges you may experience from having low vision.

The Low Vision Wellness program can be customised to suit your needs and everyone who participates in the program will work towards achieving their personalised goals.

Access early diagnosis and treatment for eye conditions.
Learn about lifestyle modifications and assistive products to help.
Gain confidence to maintain social and community interaction.

About the program

As a Low Vision Wellness program participant you will receive an initial assessment of your vision and eye health and work with our occupational therapists and registered nurses to set goals to achieve throughout the program. You will have the chance to monitor and celebrate your progress during the program and be assessed again when you complete the program to see how far you’ve come.

As a result of COVID-19, our Wellness programs have been moved to a virtual setting meaning you can access it from wherever you live. Delivered once a week via a Zoom video call, you’ll be able to speak openly about your concerns and even socialise with new friends, all from the comfort and safety of your own home. One of our Wellness Facilitators can even help you get set up if you’ve never used video calling before and all you need is internet connection and an iPad or computer.

Eligibility criteria*

You need to be aged over 65 or over 50 for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders.
This program is for those experiencing vision impairment or for those who are at risk of any vision impairment.
Some services may be available to people aged under 65.

*Other eligibility criteria may apply Contact us for more info.

How is this service delivered?

How can I access this service?

You can access this service in several ways, depending on your needs and individual situation.

In Centre

You can attend one of our Wellness or Activity Centres to take part in this service.

Join us at one of our Wellness or Activity Centres for this service.

In Community

A team member can help take you from A to B in your local community.

Learn more about services in your community

Delivered Online

We can deliver this service to you over a video call on a computer or tablet.

Learn more about our virtual services

How can I pay?

There are several way to access our services and programs, including the funding options outlined below.

Government Funding

Home Care Package and Commonwealth Home Support Program options.

More information

Private pay

You can choose to pay for our programs and services yourself if you’re not receiving government funding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the Low Vision Wellness program suitable for?

Designed for older people who have low vision or may be at risk of developing a vision-impairing eye condition due to genetic links, the program also addresses the emotional challenges you may experience from having low vision.

Can the Low Vision program be catered for specific culturally and linguistically diverse/LGBTIQA+ community needs?

Yes, this service can be aligned with your values and preferences. We will take the time to learn your individual cultural and care needs so they are always considered when making our recommendations. We will also encourage you to set meaningful goals and help you to achieve them. You may also have your preferred support person included during the program or access interpreting services if required.

Who runs the program?

This program is run by Registered Nurses and Endorsed Enrolled Nurses.

Will there be any equipment or resources provided as part of the program?

Yes, all participants will receive an iPad with a data plan, an iHealth device and an educational manual containing information on low vision wellness.

Will you be providing any support with using the iPad and iHealth devices?

Yes, our team can assist you with setting up iPad and iHealth devices and provide you ongoing support throughout the duration of the program.

Can I keep the equipment and resources after the program has ended?

You may keep the iHealth device and educational manual, however iPads will need to be returned upon the completion or cancellation of the program.

What if I have difficulty reading on the iPad screen?

Our team can assist with adjusting the font size setting on the iPad to ensure you are able to read comfortably. Or should circumstance permit, you may be able to commence the Low Vision program in person to counter any difficulties reading on an iPad.

What if I have poor vision or an existing eye condition? Am I still eligible for program?

We'll undertake an initial assessment to determine your eligibility for this program. This assessment will allow us to design a tailored program that meets your specific needs.

Can you find me medical devices/services to help me with my low vision?

Yes, we can provide you with information relating to the purchase of medical devices and/or services. We can also refer you to an Occupational Therapist through My Aged Care, who may be able to assist in getting your house modified to reduce the chances of falls or trips.

Can I take leave from the program or suspend the program?

You are encouraged to attend all sessions, but you can read the program manual to catch up on the ones you have missed. If you are unable to finish the program due to personal or health related reasons, we will assess your situation and add you to another program when it becomes available.

More resources for you

The support you need

Your needs are different to others and we understand that. Get started now or call us to chat about how we can help you stay living, feeling and being well.

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