Rural areas present a distinct challenge to providing services to individuals who are visually impaired and blind, and especially to those who are older.
I have had the experience of working in an urban area and in a very rural area. The barriers to individuals with visual impairmetns in rural areas seem to far exceed those of individuals living in urban areas.
Some of the major challenges and/or barriers to services that I have noticed over the years included:
• Access to transportation
• Access to additional social services, such as Meals on Wheels, senior centers, etc.
• Less frequent vision rehabilitation services, and/or fewer sessions/services
• Access to health care/eye medical
Most of you provide at least some services to rural areas.
What do you see as the most challenging barrier to services, and what is the greatest challenge for individuals who are visually impaired in your rural areas.
And, what are some creative techniques or resources you have utilized or accessed to help ensure those living in rural areas get high quality services?
Comments
Comment from Karen Hatcher (OIB Program Manager from MA)
Comment from Beverly Berg (OIB Program Manager from MT)
Comments from Sandy Neyhart (OIB program director from SD)
Comments from Ed Lecher (OIB Program Manager from MN)
Comment from Deanna Jesse (OIB Program Manager from NE)
Comment from Jane Ward-Solomon (OIB Program Manager from VA)