Developing a community-based low vision demonstration center: An interprofessional model

Vision loss is an age-related condition that impacts independent living and quality of life for over 3.3 million older adults. Although numerous devices exist to compensate for visual deficits, most older adults do not have access to low vision specialists or equipment options to improve their function. Senior centers are often focal points for seniors' social and health-related activities. The purpose of this project was to develop a sustainable demonstration center for low vision within an existing senior center, in order to provide access to low vision aids. This project trained occupational therapy(OT) and gerontology (GT) professionals and students, senior center directors, and community volunteers in low vision topics. Topics included visual deficits, functional deficits, low vision products, and process for choosing devices. Individuals then underwent interprofessional team training to identify low vision screenings, develop strategies for assisting seniors, and negotiate a process for sustaining a low vision center. The trainings culminated in a "Try it Out" day for community seniors who were invited to "try out" a myriad of low vision aids to improve function. Collaboration of OT/GT and community volunteers promoted a holistic understanding of the process: OT students screened for functional deficits while GT students emphasized the social involvement that assistive devices promote; community volunteers clarified the challenges in accessing and using products. This paper will describe the team training, planning, and program evaluation including older adults' satisfaction with the process, equipment found useful, and overall plan for program sustainability.