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State of Alaska > DOLWD > Vocational Rehabilitation
About Visual Impairment or Blindness
Blindness and Visual Impairment Web Site Guide
The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that of those Alaskans age 16 and older about 10,000 are visually impaired and another 1,300 are severely visually impaired. Blindness has many causes: some people are born blind; some become blind in early or mid-life; and many become blind in later years. Blindness or visual impairment has many implications for a person's ability to function independently and productively in our society. Probably the two most important functions which are often impaired are the ability to read print and the ability to be independently mobile.
With proper training and supports individuals who are blind or visually impaired can develop "alternative techniques" to allow themselves to read, be independently mobile, and function independently in their own homes, communities and workplaces. Because every person is unique and life circumstances vary from person to person, there is no single path of training and support that will work for every blind or visually impaired person. Alaska DVR works with individuals to understand their unique circumstances and develop an individualized written rehabilitation plan that will work for them in obtaining an employment goal.
Alaska DVR Services Include:
- Guidance and Counseling
- Information and Referral
- Physical Restoration Assistance (Eye Surgery, Prosthetics, Eyeglasses)
- Personal Adjustment Training in Alternative Techniques of Blindness (Braille, Mobility Using
- Long White Cane, Home Management Skills, etc.) Available Through Residential Programs and/or Itinerant Service Providers.
- Academic, Vocational and On-the-Job Training
- Work Adjustment Training / Job Coaching
- Selective Placement
- Assistive Technology (Low Vision Aids, CCTV's, Text Scanners and Speech Output for
- Computer, Screen Enlargement Software, Digital Voice Notetakers, Braille Printers, etc.)
- Transportation Assistance
- Training and Assistance in the Business Enterprise Program
Information On Web Page Accessibility And Accessible Design:
Most blind and visually impaired computer users have assistive technology such as screen enlargement and voice output which allows access to computers and the Internet. The importance of computers and the Internet is growing, and it is vital that those who are blind or visually impaired are able to use these resources. However, with the inceasing use of graphics to convey information some programs and sites are becoming inaccessible. We must realize that the elimination of these communication barriers are every bit as important as the elimination of physical barriers for those with physical disabilities.
Contact Our Statewide Coordinator for the Blind
Sue Ellen O'Connor 907-352-2553
TDD or Relay Services
1-800-770-8255
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