Residents in Ulladulla and the surrounding region living with blindness or low vision are set to have easier access to specialist support services thanks to a new clinic offered by Vision Australia.
Established earlier this year, Vision Australia staff operate a monthly clinic at the Ulladulla Civic Centre, providing people from across the region with convenient access to a range of different support services.
Caroline Yan, Vision Australia Illawarra regional business manager, said the Ulladulla clinic has been established given the success of similar activities in other regional areas.
“We’ve seen this approach work well in the past and we’re excited we can now do the same in the Ulladulla region and we think it’s something that will be popular among the blind and low vision community in the region,” Caroline said.
“For people who are blind or have low vision, travelling to appointments can be difficult sometimes. They may either need to rely on friends or family to get them there or have to use public transport, which can be an issue if they’re not familiar with the route, and other options like taxis can be expensive,” she said.
Open to both new and existing clients, the each clinic will be staffed by a Vision Australia orthoptist and an occupational therapist.
“Our orthoptist will be able to provide people with a vision assessment as well as advice around how lighting and magnification devices can support them,” Caroline said.
“Our occupational therapist is available to help people with advice around modifications and pieces of equipment that can support people to remain safe and independent at home.
“Both of them can also refer clients to other service providers, such as our orientation and mobility specialists and assistive technology specialists, as well as provide advice about how people can access funding arrangements like the National Disability Insurance Scheme.”
To make a booking at the Ulladulla Vision Australia clinic, call (02) 4220 4300 or email [email protected].