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You
need your checkbook but suddenly remember you left it in the upstairs
bedroom. You go to retrieve it.
You're
halfway through that new recipe and realize you don't have enough
sugar. Time for a quick trip to the grocery store.
You've
been invited to your niece's wedding at the end of the month, but
it's out of state. You decide to fly.
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All
these situations require getting from here…to there. This
simple task isn't so simple for people with vision loss.
When
vision begins to decline, two main skills are affected: orientation
and mobility. Orientation is the ability to make a "mental
map" of where you are and where you want to go. Mobility
is the act of actually getting there. For most of our lives, we
apply these skills unconsciously whenever we have somewhere to go.
But people with vision loss must both develop and learn to apply new
orientation and mobility skills. These skills can include walking
with a sighted (human) guide, the use of a long white cane or dog guide, and techniques for applying memory and the other senses so that
you can continue to move about safely and independently.
What
is an O&M Specialist?
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O&M instructors teach people how to get around using various methods,
such as with a cane.
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Orientation
and Mobility (O&M) specialists are highly specialized, trained
professionals who help people with vision loss learn to navigate in
their homes, workplaces, and neighborhoods. Ultimately, O&M
specialists teach people to effectively use orientation and mobility
skills together to achieve their individual goals of independence.
Basic
Orientation and Mobility Techniques
O&M
training is based on the individual goals and needs of each person,
which vary greatly. Maybe you only need help getting to the mailbox
and back. Or perhaps your job involves a long commute. Whatever your
personal needs, it's important that anyone with vision loss learn basic skills that can be used in any environment.
[Note:
Be advised that this section is intended as an introductory overview
ONLY. It is NOT comprehensive nor does it provide specifics on how
to perform these skills. You MUST obtain direct training from an O&M
Specialist to ensure that the techniques are done in a safe and
efficient manner. For more information about O&M training, please
contact your local, state, or private agency that provides
vision rehabilitation services.]
For
More Information:
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Orientation and Mobility Video
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Rehab training gave me back my confidence in the kitchen.
