Storm Lake hosts 30th anniversary celebration of Independent Living program for seniors with vision loss

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:Courtney Townsend

515.281.1242

When: Thursday, Aug. 5, 2010 • 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Where: AEA Building, 824 Flindt Dr. Suites A, B & C, Storm Lake

As a person grows older, health issues can slow them down, and they may be concerned about losing their independence. When vision loss occurs, the situation becomes more acute. Often, seniors with vision loss can end up dependent on others to complete simple tasks like grocery shopping or cooking dinner. The Iowa Department for the Blind’s Independent Living program has for the last 30 years helped to keep aging Iowans with significant vision loss living in their own homes and doing the things they enjoy.

The program will be celebrating its 30th anniversary Aug. 5 in Storm Lake. The event will present an opportunity for area residents to learn more about the program, talk with Independent Living staff about services, and meet others who have benefitted from the program.

"Many people experience difficulty with regular activities such as cooking, shopping, reading, and taking care of their personal needs when they begin to lose vision, but there are many devices and lots of easy strategies for living independently with low vision. During the celebration, independent living teachers will be available to discuss and demonstrate ways to continue to have a quality of life when you lose your vision," said Jennifer Hutson, the IDB independent living teacher who serves the Storm Lake area.

The event will be broken into two sessions. A morning session from 10:30 a.m. to noon will present an overview of services that can help caregivers, social workers, home health nurses and other service providers as they work with clients.

An afternoon session from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. is open to the general public who want to learn more about the program and other services offered by the IDB. Seniors who have benefitted from the program and those wishing to celebrate its anniversary are encouraged to attend this session.

"A friend or family member may experience vision loss and be unaware of the assistance they can receive," said Hutson.

Throughout the day, IDB staff will demonstrate assistive devices, such as writing guides, text enlargers, and talking alarm clocks and health devices. Information also will be provided on ways those with vision loss can stay in contact with friends, family and the community.

"We want to reach out to the Storm Lake community so its residents are familiar with the services available to them and that our agency services people with different types of vision loss," Hutson said.

For more information about this event or the Iowa Department for the Blind and its services for blind and visually impaired Iowans, contact Courtney Townsend at (515) 281-1242 or Courtney.Townsend@blind.state.ia.us