News

New local service for the vision impaired

Wed, 03 May 2017 05:06:00

Broken Hill residents who are blind or have low vision now have access to local services to help them live more independently.

Vision Australia staff will visit the region every three months to provide services, including orientation and mobility, orthoptics and occupational therapy, and adaptive technology.

Vision Australia regional manager Paul Warwick said more than 500 people living in Broken Hill were blind or had low vision.

Mr Warwick said thanks to funding provided under the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP), Vision Australia could focus on supporting the community.

“There is a real need for allied health and specialised vision services in the region,” he said.

“Vision Australia has visited periodically in the past when we’ve had referrals from health professionals, but now we can offer the community a regular, structured service and better help them live the life they choose.”

Vision Australia commenced its quarterly service from the Broken Hill and District Hearing Resource Centre at 187 Argent Street in February this year.

The next visit is scheduled for 17 and 18 May 2017.

For more information, or to make an appointment, contact the Vision Australia Mildura office on 03 5023 9500.