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We can help you stay engaged and connected to others through a range of groups, programs and technology. Enjoy and make the most of all the things you’re passionate about.
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We can help you stay engaged and connected to others through a range of groups, programs and technology. Enjoy and make the most of all the things you’re passionate about.
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Social and recreation
Social and recreation groups are all about bringing people together, whether you share a hobby or simply want to connect with others.
With both in-person and virtual options, you can join us at one of our locations, out in the community or from the comfort of your home. We offer a wide range of interest-based and social groups that encourage an active lifestyle and support you and your goals.
The sessions last anywhere from 60 minutes to 5 hours. You can choose from one-off events, or join us weekly, fortnightly or monthly.
Social and recreation
Telelink brings together people with shared interests through hour-long telephone or video conferencing sessions. Offering a wide range of engaging programs, Telelink provides opportunities for meaningful connections and enjoyable interactions.
Depending on the program, sessions are held weekly, fortnightly, or monthly.
Enjoy the convenience of connecting from home while expanding your social circle and pursuing your interests.
“I really love the program. I’ve enjoyed every time I learn new things, getting new information, getting support. It’s been fantastic.”
For adults over 65 years
There’s no right or wrong way to process a new diagnosis of vision loss.
Check in and Chat is a telehealth program that helps to build optimism and boost self-esteem while adjusting to the daily impact of vision loss.
Developed by experts and run by trained Wellbeing Officers, the program is designed to support you in your emotional wellbeing while adjusting to vision loss.
“It honestly made me feel there was life after blindness.”
How Brittnee got her groove back
For Brittnee it was the shock of the early onset of her vision loss that caused the most distress.
“When you are 22, you don’t think you are going to get the diseases of an 80-year-old,” she says. “My darkest point was Australia Day 2017. I woke up in the morning and I was totally blind. The morning that I woke up with no sight, I then lost my job, I lost my career, my boss told me there was no point in me coming back. And that was probably the time I did lock myself in the house for about a week.”
Brittnee contacted Vision Australia and learned about the Quality Living Groups. The groups helped Brittnee cope with her vision loss.
“I honestly didn’t think the groups would be so much fun, I laughed more than I cried in these groups,” she says. “It honestly made me feel there was life after blindness.”
Specialised in recommending and training people to use accessible technology and products suited to their needs.
Access Technology  A wide range of books, magazines, newspapers, podcasts and helpful resources in a variety of accessible formats.
Vision Australia Library  Connect, learn and enjoy a large selection of live broadcast programs, news, shows and podcasts.
Vision Australia Radio  Enhance your wellbeing with the latest assistive technology and products, designed to support you in continuing to do the things you enjoy and enabling you to live more independently.
Discover our range of accessible board games. Play together with family and friends.
Self-threading or pre-threaded needles help make sewing a stress-free and enjoyable experience.
A range of specialist equipment is available to make many sports more inclusive.
Yes, services provided by Vision Australia do incur a cost. There are several ways you can fund the support, services and products you need We can support you with your funding applications. Please give us a call on 1300 847 466 to discuss your options. In some circumstances, a service will require a minimal client contribution.
Our clients have told us they have gained many benefits from the support they receive via our groups and programs, including the confidence to take on new challenges, learning new ways to complete everyday tasks and developing a social support network.
Quality Living Groups focus on the emotional and practical impacts of vision loss. Telelink connects like-minded people through hobbies and shared interests. Both groups are a valuable way to develop your social support network and connect with others with similar experiences.
If you have found any of this information challenging, you can seek support through organisations such as Beyond Blue. For immediate support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.