Current location:
Seniors with vision loss invited to info sessions in northeast Iowa
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Shoshana Hebshi, IDB
Feb. 1, 2011 515.281.1338
Kim Ricketts, HVAAA
319.277.1900
Informational Sessions on Vision Loss Set Up for Northeast Iowa Senior Dining Locations
Locations
Monday, Feb. 7, 10 a.m.
Cedar Falls Senior Center
528 Main Street
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Friday, Feb. 11, 10 a.m.
Grundy Center Sr. Center
705 F. Ave.
Grundy Center, IA 50638
Wed., Feb. 16, 10:30 a.m.
Dumont Senior Dining
Legion Hall
508 Main St. in Dumont
Blind and visually impaired older Iowans have the opportunity to learn what’s available to Iowans with vision loss at one of a series of informational sessions being offered at area Hawkeye Valley Area Agency on Aging Dining Sites.
The Iowa Department for the Blind will present information to seniors and the general public about its services to blind and visually impaired Iowans. Anyone experiencing vision loss or who knows someone with vision loss will benefit from this presentation.
Independent Living teachers from the Department will show simple ways to conduct day-to-day activities when vision loss makes things difficult. Discussion and demonstrations will include using the Iowa Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped to receive audiobooks and magazines through the mail, methods for telling time, marking appliances so they can be set by touch and how to access free newspaper reading programs.
“People often fear that a loss of vision means a loss of independence and a loss of meaningful activities,” said Becky Criswell, supervisor for Independent Living program at the Department. “This presentation will help people discover ways to maintain their independence and to continue activities they enjoy.”
About the Iowa Department for the Blind
IDB is a state agency that provides an array of services to blind and visually impaired Iowans to help them build confidence, gain or keep employment and continue to do the things they love to do despite vision loss.
Headquartered in downtown Des Moines, IDB’s field staff is spread throughout the state to deliver direct services to Iowans who need them in their homes or workplaces.
About Hawkeye Valley Area Agency on Aging
HVAAA is a private, not-for-profit corporation serving elders in Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan, Butler, Chickasaw, Grundy, Hardin, Marshall, Poweshiek and Tama counties. HVAAA coordinates services for people ages 60 and older and their caregivers to maintain the independence they desire. Some of the services provided by HVAAA include the Aging & Disability Resource Center, home delivered meals, caregiver support and respite services, case management services, consumer protection education, congregate meals, public information and education, and advocacy.
For more information about this event or the Iowa Department for the Blind and its services for blind and visually impaired Iowans, contact Shoshana Hebshi at (515) 281-1338 or Shoshana.Hebshi@blind.state.ia.us.
For more information about Hawkeye Valley Area Agency on Aging services call the Aging & Disability Resource Center toll free at 1-877-538-0508.
