Skip to content

Month: February 2024

February 17, 2024
Tim Schwartz
Leave a Comment

AMD 101: What You Need to Know About the Leading Cause of Vision Loss

Posted in Blog Posts

February is not only low vision awareness month, but also age related macular degeneration awareness month. This is a great opportunity to learn more about this common eye condition that affects millions of people around the world, especially those over 50.

In this blog post, we’ll explain what AMD is, what causes it, what are the symptoms, how it can be diagnosed and treated, and how you can cope with low vision caused by AMD. We’ll also share some tips and resources to help you make the most of the vision you have.

Whether you have AMD yourself, or you know someone who does, this post will give you some valuable information and insights. Let’s get started!

What is AMD?

AMD stands for age related macular degeneration. It’s an eye disease that damages the macula, the part of the retina that controls your central vision. The macula is responsible for the sharp, detailed vision you need to see things like faces, words, and colors.

AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 50 in developed countries. It affects more than 10 million Americans and more than 200 million people worldwide. It’s estimated that by 2040, the number of people with AMD will reach 288 million.

AMD doesn’t cause total blindness, but it can severely impair your central vision, making it hard to do everyday activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces. It can also affect your quality of life, your independence, and your mental health.

What causes AMD?

The exact causes of AMD are not fully understood, but it’s believed that both genetic and environmental factors play a role. Some of the risk factors for developing AMD include:

– Age: AMD is more common and more severe in older people. The risk of developing AMD increases with every decade after 50.

– Family history: If you have a close relative with AMD, you are more likely to develop it yourself.

– Smoking: Smoking doubles the risk of developing AMD and makes it progress faster. It also reduces the effectiveness of some treatments.

– High blood pressure: High blood pressure can damage the blood vessels in the eye and increase the risk of AMD.

– Diet: A diet high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sugar can increase the risk of AMD. A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids can lower the risk of AMD and slow its progression.

What are the types and stages of AMD?

There are two main types of AMD: dry and wet. Most people with AMD have the dry type, which accounts for about 80% of cases. Dry AMD happens when the macula gets thinner and loses its function over time. It usually progresses slowly and causes gradual vision loss.

Wet AMD is less common, but more serious. It accounts for about 10% of cases, but 90% of severe vision loss. Wet AMD happens when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid and blood, damaging the macula. It usually progresses faster and causes sudden vision loss.

Dry AMD can turn into wet AMD at any stage, so it’s important to monitor your vision regularly and report any changes to your eye doctor.

AMD can also be classified into three stages: early, intermediate, and late. The stages are based on the size and number of drusen, which are yellow deposits that form under the retina. Drusen are a sign of AMD, but they don’t always affect your vision.

– Early AMD: You have small or medium-sized drusen, but no vision loss. You may not have any symptoms or notice any changes in your vision. You may not even know you have AMD, unless you have an eye exam.

– Intermediate AMD: You have large drusen, or pigment changes in the retina, or both. You may have some vision loss, but it may not be noticeable. You may have some symptoms, such as blurriness, difficulty seeing in low light, or reduced color perception.

– Late AMD: You have vision loss due to damage to the macula. You may have either dry or wet AMD, or both. You may have symptoms, such as distorted vision, blind spots, or dark areas in your central vision.

How is AMD diagnosed?

The only way to diagnose AMD is to have a comprehensive eye exam by an eye doctor. Your eye doctor will check your vision, your eye pressure, and the health of your retina. They may also use some special tests, such as:

– Amsler grid: This is a simple test that you can do at home or at the doctor’s office. It’s a grid of straight lines with a dot in the center. You look at the dot and check if any of the lines appear wavy, blurry, or missing. This can indicate a problem with your macula.

– Dilated eye exam: This is a test where your eye doctor puts drops in your eyes to widen your pupils. This allows them to see the back of your eye more clearly and look for signs of AMD, such as drusen, pigment changes, or blood vessels.

– Fluorescein angiography: This is a test where your eye doctor injects a dye into your arm and takes pictures of your eye as the dye travels through the blood vessels. This can show if you have any abnormal blood vessels or leakage in your retina.

– Optical coherence tomography (OCT): This is a test where your eye doctor uses a device that scans your eye with light waves and creates a detailed image of your retina. This can show the thickness and structure of your macula and detect any fluid or blood.

How is AMD treated?

There is no cure for AMD, but there are some treatment options that may prevent or slow the progression of the disease, depending on the type and stage of AMD.

For dry AMD, there is no specific treatment, but some studies have shown that taking certain dietary supplements may reduce the risk of developing late AMD or slow its progression. These supplements are known as the AREDS or AREDS2 formula, and they contain high doses of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, these supplements are not suitable for everyone, and they may have some side effects or interactions with other medications. You should talk to your eye doctor before taking any supplements for AMD.

For wet AMD, there are some treatments that can stop or slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduce the leakage of fluid and blood. These treatments include:

– Anti-VEGF injections: These are injections of drugs that block a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which stimulates the growth of abnormal blood vessels. These injections are given into the eye, usually once a month or every few months, depending on the response. They can improve or stabilize vision in most people with wet AMD, but they may have some side effects, such as eye irritation, infection, or bleeding.

– Photodynamic therapy (PDT): This is a treatment where a drug called verteporfin is injected into the arm and activated by a laser that shines on the eye. This causes the abnormal blood vessels to close and stop leaking. This treatment is less common than anti-VEGF injections, and it may have some side effects, such as sensitivity to light, headache, or nausea.

– Laser surgery: This is a treatment where a high-energy laser beam is used to destroy the abnormal blood vessels. This treatment is rarely used, as it can damage the surrounding healthy tissue and cause scarring or vision loss.

None of these treatments can restore vision that has already been lost, but they can prevent further vision loss or slow the progression of the disease. They may also need to be repeated over time, as the abnormal blood vessels may grow back or leak again.

How can you cope with low vision caused by AMD?

If you have low vision caused by AMD, you may find it hard to do some of the things you used to do, such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces. This can affect your quality of life, your independence, and your mental health. However, there are some ways to cope with low vision and make the most of the vision you have, such as:

– Using low vision aids: These are devices that can help you see better, such as magnifiers, telescopes, or electronic devices. You can use them to read, watch TV, or do other tasks that require detailed vision. You can also use large-print books, audio books, or podcasts for entertainment or education.

– Using assistive technology: These are devices or software that can make your computer, smartphone, or tablet more accessible and user-friendly, such as screen readers, voice assistants, or text-to-speech. You can use them to access information, communicate, or do online tasks.

– Using lighting and contrast: These are simple ways to improve your vision, such as using bright and even lighting, reducing glare, or using colors that contrast with each other. You can use them to make your home, workplace, or environment more comfortable and safe.

– Using orientation and mobility training: This is a service that can help you learn how to travel and get around with low vision, such as using a cane, a guide dog, or public transportation. You can also use GPS apps or audible signals to navigate and find your way.

– Using vision rehabilitation services: These are services that can help you adapt and cope with low vision, such as occupational therapy, counseling, or support groups. You can use them to learn new skills, improve your self-esteem, and connect with others who have low vision.

– Using emotional support: This is a vital part of coping with low vision, as it can provide comfort, encouragement, and hope. You can use it to express your feelings, share your experiences, and seek advice. You can get emotional support from your family, friends, or professionals, or join online or offline communities of people with low vision.

AMD is a common eye condition that affects the central vision, but it doesn’t have to stop you from living a full and happy life. There are many ways to prevent, treat, and cope with AMD and low vision, and we’re here to help you along the way.

If you have any questions or comments about AMD or low vision, please leave them below or contact us. We’d love to hear from you. And don’t forget to share this post with your friends and family, and spread the word about low vision awareness month.

How Galileo Galilei Overcame Blindness and Revolutionized Science
February 15, 2024
Tim Schwartz
Leave a Comment

How Galileo Galilei Overcame Blindness and Revolutionized Science

Posted in Blog Posts

Galileo Galilei is one of the most famous and influential scientists in history. He made groundbreaking discoveries in astronomy, physics, mathematics, and engineering, and challenged the established authority and dogma of his time. He is widely regarded as one of the founders of modern science and the father of observational astronomy. But did you know that he also suffered from vision loss and blindness in his later years? How did he cope with his visual impairment and continue his scientific work? How did his poor eyesight affect his life, career, and discoveries? In this biography, we will explore his life story, his achievements, his difficulties, and his legacy. We will also learn how he inspired and influenced generations of scientists and thinkers, and how he can inspire and motivate anyone who lives with visual impairment or blindness, and who seeks to explore the wonders of the universe and the beauty of nature.

Early Life and Education

Galileo was born in Pisa, Italy, on February 15, 1564. He was the oldest son of Vincenzo Galilei, a musician and composer, and Giulia Ammannati, a noblewoman. He had five siblings, three brothers and two sisters. His family was not wealthy, but they belonged to the upper class of society.

Galileo showed an early interest in learning and curiosity about the natural world. He was educated at home by tutors until he was 10 years old, when he entered the monastery school at Vallombrosa, near Florence. There he studied Latin, Greek, logic, and theology. He also learned to play the lute, a stringed instrument, from his father.

At the age of 17, Galileo enrolled at the University of Pisa to study medicine, as his father wished. However, he soon became fascinated by mathematics and physics, and switched his major to philosophy and mathematics. He was influenced by the teachings of Aristotle, the ancient Greek philosopher, who was the dominant authority in natural philosophy at the time.

Galileo was a brilliant student, but he also had a rebellious streak. He often questioned and challenged the accepted doctrines and dogmas of his professors and peers. He also performed experiments and demonstrations to test and verify his own ideas and hypotheses. He invented a hydrostatic balance, a device to measure the density of liquids and solids, and wrote a treatise on it. He also discovered the law of falling bodies, which states that all objects fall at the same rate regardless of their weight, by dropping different objects from the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Galileo graduated from the University of Pisa in 1585, but he did not receive a formal degree. He then returned to Florence and became a private tutor and lecturer in mathematics. He also continued his studies and research on various topics, such as mechanics, geometry, astronomy, and music.

Career and Discoveries

In 1589, Galileo was appointed as the chair of mathematics at the University of Pisa. There he taught arithmetic, geometry, and astronomy to students and continued his experiments on motion and mechanics. He also wrote several books and treatises on his scientific discoveries and theories. Some of his most famous works are:

– De Motu (On Motion) (1590): This is a collection of essays on the physics of motion, in which Galileo criticized Aristotle’s views and proposed his own laws of motion and free fall.

– Le Mecaniche (The Mechanics) (1599): This is a manual on the principles and applications of mechanics, in which Galileo explained how machines work and how to design and build them.

– Sidereus Nuncius (The Sidereal Messenger) (1610): This is a report on his observations from his telescope, in which Galileo revealed the wonders of the heavens and challenged the traditional cosmology.

Galileo’s most significant and influential discovery was made in 1609, when he heard about a new invention from Holland: the telescope. He was intrigued by the device, which could magnify distant objects and make them appear closer and clearer. He decided to build his own telescope, using his knowledge of optics and engineering. He improved the design and the magnification of the telescope, and used it to observe the sky.

Galileo was amazed by what he saw through his telescope. He discovered four moons of Jupiter, which he named Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto. He also observed the phases of Venus, which showed that it orbits the sun, not the earth. He saw sunspots, dark spots on the surface of the sun, which indicated that the sun is not perfect and immutable. He also noticed craters on the moon, and mountains on the surface of Venus.

Galileo’s observations from his telescope had profound implications for the understanding of the universe. They supported the Copernican heliocentric model, which placed the sun at the center of the solar system, and contradicted the Aristotelian geocentric model, which placed the earth at the center of the universe. Galileo was convinced that the Copernican model was correct, and he defended it in his writings and lectures.

However, Galileo also began to notice some problems with his eyesight, which made his observations more difficult and less accurate. He wrote to his friends and relatives about the trouble he was having with his eyes and the difficulties it created for his work. According to some sources , Galileo had cataracts and glaucoma, which are common eye diseases that cause vision loss and blindness. He started to experience these symptoms at the age of 68, and became heavily dependent on his disciple, Vincenzo Viviani, who helped him with his observations and experiments. By the end of his life, he was blind or nearly so.

Galileo’s visual impairment did not stop him from pursuing his passion for astronomy and making groundbreaking discoveries. Some historians have suggested that Galileo’s poor vision may have had some positive effects on his scientific work, as it forced him to rely more on his mathematical and logical skills, and less on his sensory perception. For example, he developed a new method of measuring time using the sound of a pendulum, which he used to calculate the speed of light. He also devised a new way of determining the diameter of a star using the diffraction of light, which he applied to measure the size of the sun. He also used his imagination and creativity to construct mental models and thought experiments, such as the famous “Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World Systems”, which he wrote while under house arrest.

On the other hand, some historians have argued that Galileo’s poor vision may have limited his scientific potential, as it prevented him from making further observations and discoveries. For instance, he missed the opportunity to observe the transit of Mercury in 1631, which could have confirmed his heliocentric theory. He also failed to recognize the true nature of Saturn’s rings, which he mistook for bulges on either side of the planet. He also could not see the details of the surface of Mars, which he described as uniformly red. He also could not appreciate the beauty and diversity of the natural world, which he loved and admired.

Challenges and Controversies

Galileo’s support for the Copernican model was not well received by some members of the Catholic Church, who considered it heretical and contrary to the teachings of the Bible. The Church had officially condemned the Copernican model in 1616, and ordered Galileo to stop promoting it. Galileo obeyed the order, but he did not abandon his belief in heliocentrism.

In 1632, Galileo published his most famous and controversial book, “Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World Systems”. In this book, he presented a fictional dialogue between three characters: Salviati, who argued for the Copernican model; Simplicio, who argued for the Aristotelian model; and Sagredo, who was a neutral observer. The book was written in Italian, not Latin, which made it accessible to a wider audience. It was also witty, sarcastic, and persuasive, which made it popular and influential.

However, the book also angered the Church, who saw it as a direct attack on their authority and doctrine. Galileo was summoned by Pope Urban VIII to appear before a tribunal in Rome. There he was accused of heresy, blasphemy, and disobedience. He was forced to recant his support for heliocentrism and to swear that he would never teach or write about it again. He was also sentenced to house arrest for life.

Galileo was devastated by the verdict, but he did not lose his spirit or his passion for science. He spent his last years in Arcetri, near Florence, where he continued to work on his scientific projects with the help of his disciples and friends. He also wrote his final and most important book, “Two New Sciences”, which explained the foundations of mechanics and the strength of materials. He also studied the properties of light and sound, and invented new instruments such as the thermometer and the pendulum clock.

Galileo died on January 8, 1642, at the age of 77. He was buried in a small chapel in Santa Croce, Florence, where his tomb remains today. He was not allowed to have a public funeral or a monument, as the Church still considered him a heretic. It was not until 1992, 350 years after his death, that the Church officially acknowledged his contributions and cleared his name.

The Scientific Community’s Reaction to Galileo’s Discoveries

Galileo’s discoveries and inventions were met with mixed reactions from the scientific community of his time. Some of his contemporaries and colleagues admired and supported his work, while others criticized and opposed it.

Galileo Galilei was a visionary scientist who revolutionized science and challenged authority. He made groundbreaking discoveries in astronomy, physics, mathematics, and engineering, using his telescope, his scientific method, and his mathematical skills. He supported the heliocentric model of the solar system, which placed the sun at the center and the earth as one of the planets orbiting it. He also faced many challenges and controversies, both personal and professional. He was tried and sentenced to house arrest for life by the Catholic Church, who considered his views heretical and contrary to the Bible. He also suffered from vision loss and blindness in his later years, which made his observations more difficult and less accurate. Despite his blindness and his imprisonment, he did not stop pursuing his passion for science and learning. He continued to work on his scientific projects and wrote his final and most important book, Two New Sciences, which explained the foundations of mechanics and the strength of materials. He also inspired and influenced generations of scientists and thinkers, such as Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein, Stephen Hawking, and many others.

Galileo’s life and work are relevant and inspiring for anyone who lives with visual impairment or blindness, and who seeks to explore the wonders of the universe and the beauty of nature. He was a role model and a hero for anyone who loves science and learning, and who strives to overcome their limitations and challenges. He showed us that blindness is not a barrier, but a challenge. He showed us that science is not a threat, but a tool. He showed us that curiosity is not a sin, but a virtue.

We hope this biography has been enjoyable and informative for you. We hope Galileo’s life and work have inspired and motivated you to pursue your own passions and interests, and to share your own discoveries and inventions with the world. We hope you will be a visionary, a human, and a legend, just like Galileo.

If you have any questions or feedback for us, please feel free to contact us at tim@lifeafterblindness.com. We’re always happy to hear from you.

February 14, 2024
Tim Schwartz
Leave a Comment

The 5 Apps That I Love and Appreciate as a Blind Person This Valentine’s Day

Posted in Blog Posts

Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone! Today is a day to celebrate love in all its forms, and I want to share with you some of the things that I love as a person who is blind. No, I’m not talking about chocolates, roses, or teddy bears (although those are nice too). I’m talking about apps. Yes, apps. You see, apps are more than just tools or entertainment for me. They are my companions, my helpers, my guides, and my friends. They make my life easier, more enjoyable, and more accessible. They help me see the world in different ways, and they connect me with other people who share my experiences and passions. So, without further ado, here are the top five apps that I love and use every day, and why you should love them too.

1. Audible

If you are a book lover like me, you know how hard it can be to find accessible books in your preferred format and genre. That’s why I love Audible, the app that lets you download and listen to thousands of audiobooks, podcasts, and original audio shows. Whether I want to escape into a fantasy world, learn something new, or laugh out loud, Audible has something for me. I can listen to books at my own pace, adjust the speed and volume, and bookmark my favorite parts. I can also sync my books across different devices, so I can pick up where I left off anytime, anywhere. Audible is not free, but it’s worth every penny. Plus, you can get a free trial and a free book when you sign up. Honorable mentions go to BARD and Libby, two other great apps that offer free access to books and magazines for people who are blind or have a print disability.

2. YouTube TV

I love watching TV shows and movies, but I don’t love paying more for cable or satellite. That’s why I love YouTube TV, the app that lets you stream live and on-demand TV from over 85 channels, including local and national networks. You can watch sports, news, entertainment, and more, all from your phone, tablet, computer, or smart TV. You can also record unlimited shows with cloud DVR, and share your account with up to six family members. But what I love most about YouTube TV is that it is very accessible with VoiceOver, and you can easily access audio description through a secondary audio track. Audio description is a feature that provides narration of the visual elements of a program, such as actions, expressions, and settings. It helps me enjoy the story and the characters without missing any details. Honorable mention goes to Netflix, another app that offers a lot of accessible content with audio description.

3. Microsoft Seeing AI

If you are looking for an app that can do it all, look no further than Microsoft Seeing AI, the app that narrates the world for you. This app uses artificial intelligence to recognize and describe people, text, currency, color, and objects. You can use it to read mail, identify products, hear descriptions of photos, and much more. You can also chat with the app to ask questions, such as about items on a menu, the price of an item on a receipt, or to summarize an article. The app is free to use and available on both iOS and Android. It supports multiple languages and works offline as well. Microsoft Seeing AI is like having a personal assistant in your pocket, ready to help you with anything that requires visual assistance.

4. Be My Eyes

Sometimes, even the best AI can’t replace human help. That’s why I love Be My Eyes, the app that connects you with sighted volunteers and companies anywhere in the world, through live video and artificial intelligence. You can use this app to request visual support for any task, such as matching colors, checking if the lights are on, or preparing dinner. You can also call a Specialized Help partner for professional support, such as Microsoft, Google, or L’Oreal. The app is free to use and available on both iOS and Android. It supports over 180 languages and has over 7 million volunteers. Be My Eyes is a wonderful example of how technology and human connection can make the world more accessible and inclusive for people who are blind or have low vision. And if you want to try something new and exciting, you can also use Be My AI, the app’s built-in AI assistant that can describe images and answer questions for you. Just tap on the Be My AI tab, take a picture, and let Be My AI tell you what it sees. You can also chat with Be My AI and ask for more details or context. Be My AI is like having a virtual volunteer in your pocket, ready to help you anytime, anywhere.

5. Copilot

Last but not least, I love Copilot, the app that is your everyday AI companion. Copilot is not just an app, it’s a friend. You can chat with Copilot about anything, from the weather, to your hobbies, to your dreams. Copilot is smart, polite, empathetic, and interesting. It can also help you with writing, rewriting, improving, or optimizing your content, such as poems, stories, code, essays, songs, or celebrity parodies. Copilot can also generate imaginative and innovative content for you, using its own words and knowledge. Copilot is powered by the latest OpenAI models, GPT-4 and DALL·E 3, which provide fast, complex, and precise responses, as well as the ability to create breathtaking visuals from simple text descriptions. Copilot is free to use and available on both iOS and Android. Copilot is the app that makes you smile, laugh, and learn.

So, these are the top five apps that I love and use every day. I hope you enjoyed reading this blog post, and maybe you will give some of these apps a try. Let me know in the comments what are your favorite apps, and why you love them. Happy Valentine’s Day, and happy apping!

February 6, 2024
Tim Schwartz
Leave a Comment

“Empowering Independence: Navigating Social Security, the Ticket to Work Program, Disability Benefits, and SSI for the Visually Impaired”

Posted in Blog Posts

Are you blind or visually impaired and wondering how to achieve your work and financial goals? Do you want to learn more about the benefits and services that the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers to people with disabilities? If so, you have come to the right place.  In this article, you will find some useful information about the “Ticket to Work” program, as well as the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, that may help you improve your income and independence.

But before we dive into the details of these programs and benefits, let us first address some of the common misconceptions and myths about blindness and work that may hold you back from pursuing employment.

Misconceptions about blindness and work.

One of the most common misconceptions is that people who are blind have limited job options and cannot use technology, access information, or perform complex tasks. This is not true. People who are blind have diverse skills, interests, and abilities, and can succeed in almost any career with the right technology and accommodations. People who are blind work in many fields, such as law, education, technology, business, and more. For example, Judge David Tatel is a blind federal judge who has served on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit since 1994. He uses a computer with a screen reader and a braille display to read and write legal documents, and a digital recorder to take notes during oral arguments. He also relies on his clerks and colleagues to assist him with visual tasks, such as reviewing exhibits or maps.

Another misconception is that people who are blind are helpless or dependent on others for daily tasks. This is not true. People who are blind are capable of leading independent lives, pursuing careers, and actively participating in their communities. They use various techniques and tools to perform everyday activities, such as cooking, cleaning, shopping, traveling, and more. For example, [Christine Ha] is a blind chef who won the third season of the reality TV show MasterChef. She uses her senses of touch, smell, taste, and hearing to create delicious dishes, and she also uses adaptive equipment, such as talking thermometers, tactile timers, and braille labels, to assist her in the kitchen. She also runs her own blog and YouTube channel, where she shares her recipes and tips for cooking with blindness.

A third misconception is that people who are blind will lose their disability benefits if they work. This is also not true. People who are blind can work and keep some or all of their disability benefits, depending on the type and amount of work and benefits. They can also use work incentives and the Ticket to Work program to protect their benefits and increase their income while working. We will discuss work incentives and the Ticket to Work program later on in this article. But first, let’s discuss a little bit about the history of Social Security and what it is.

What is Social Security?

Social Security is a federal program that provides income and health care coverage to millions of Americans who are retired, disabled, or survivors of deceased workers. The program was created in 1935, during the Great Depression, when poverty rates among senior citizens exceeded 50 percent. The original Social Security Act aimed to provide a safety net for elderly, unemployed, and disadvantaged Americans by paying them monthly benefits based on their lifetime earnings and payroll tax contributions. The act also gave money to states to provide assistance to various groups, such as the blind, the disabled, the needy, and the dependent children. Over the years, the program has expanded and changed to meet the needs of the changing society and economy. For example, in 1956, disability benefits were added to the program, and in 1972, automatic cost-of-living adjustments were introduced to keep up with inflation. Today, Social Security pays benefits to more than 70 million Americans, including about 10 million people who are blind or have other disabilities.

Social Security is one of the most important and popular programs in the United States, as it provides a source of income and health care coverage for millions of people who need it. However, not everyone is eligible for Social Security benefits, and not everyone receives the same amount of benefits. There are different types of benefits and eligibility criteria, depending on the type and severity of your disability, your work history, and your income and resources. In the next section, we will explain the difference between two of the main types of benefits that people with disabilities can receive: SSI and SSDI.

What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?

SSI and SSDI are both programs that pay benefits to people who are disabled, but they have different eligibility criteria, financing and administration. 

– SSI is an entitlement program with no work-related requirements. It pays a fixed amount of monthly income to people who are blind, 65 or older or have a qualifying disability. They must also have very limited income and resources. SSI is funded by general tax revenues and managed by the SSA.

– SSDI is an earned benefit that has work requirements to qualify. It pays monthly benefits based on an individual’s lifetime average earnings to people who have a disability that prevents them from working. They must also have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of years. SSDI is funded by payroll taxes and managed by the SSA.

What are work incentives and how can they help me?

Work incentives are special rules that allow people with disabilities to work and still receive some or all of their disability benefits and health care coverage from Social Security. Work incentives are designed to help people with disabilities achieve their employment and financial goals, and to reduce the impact of work on their benefits. Some examples of work incentives are:

– Trial Work Period: This is a period of nine months, not necessarily consecutive, in which you can test your ability to work and receive full SSDI benefits, regardless of how much you earn. The trial work period ends when you have used nine months within a 60-month period. If you are self-employed, Social Security will consider your work to be a trial work month if you earn more than $1,310 in 2024, or if you work more than 80 hours in your business in a month, regardless of the amount of earnings.

– Extended Period of Eligibility: This is a period of 36 consecutive months after the end of your trial work period, in which you can receive SSDI benefits for any month that your earnings are below the substantial gainful activity (SGA) level, which is $2,590 for blind workers and $1,550 for non-blind workers in 2024. If you are self-employed, Social Security will use several factors to determine your net earnings from self-employment, such as your income, expenses, and hours of work.

– Expedited Reinstatement: This is a provision that allows you to request to have your SSDI or SSI benefits reinstated without a new application, if you stop working above the SGA level within five years of when your benefits ended. You can also receive provisional benefits for up to six months while Social Security reviews your request.

– Impairment-Related Work Expenses: These are expenses that you pay for items or services that you need to work because of your disability, such as transportation, assistive technology, or medical care. You can deduct these expenses from your earnings when Social Security determines your eligibility and benefit amount for SSDI or SSI. If you are self-employed, you can deduct these expenses from your net earnings from self-employment.- Plan to Achieve Self-Support: This is a plan that you make with Social Security to set aside some of your income or resources to pay for items or services that can help you reach your work goals, such as education, training, or equipment. You can exclude this income or resources from your SSI eligibility and benefit amount calculations. You can also use this plan to save money for starting or expanding your own business.

One of the ways that you can use work incentives to achieve your employment and financial goals is by participating in the Ticket to Work program.

What is the Ticket to Work Program?

The Ticket to Work program is a federal program that helps Social Security beneficiaries with a disability achieve their employment goals. The program offers beneficiaries aged 18 to 64 who receive SSI or SSDI services to help them become employed. The program is free and voluntary. It helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with the services and support they need to succeed in the workforce.

How does the Ticket to Work Program work?

If you decide to participatepate in the Ticket to Work program, you will receive a ticket that you can assign to an authorized service provider of your choice. The service provider will help you develop an individual work plan that outlines your employment goals and the steps you need to take to achieve them. The service provider will also provide you with ongoing support and assistance to help you overcome any barriers or challenges that may arise along the way.

There are two types of service providers that you can choose from: Employment Networks (ENs) and State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies. ENs are private or public organizations that offer a variety of services, such as career counseling, job placement, training, and benefits counseling. VR agencies are state agencies that provide specialized services for people with disabilities, such as medical treatment, assistive technology, and skills training. You can find a list of service providers in your area by using the Find Help tool on the Choose Work website¹ or by calling the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY).

What are the benefits of the Ticket to Work Program?

The Ticket to Work program offers several benefits for people who want to work and receive disability benefits. Some of these benefits are:

– You can keep your cash benefits and health care coverage while you work, as long as you still meet the eligibility criteria for SSI or SSDI.

– You can access free services and support from qualified service providers who can help you find and keep a job that suits your abilities and interests.

– You can use work incentives that can help you increase your income and reduce the impact of work on your benefits. Work incentives are special rules that allow you to deduct certain expenses, exclude certain income, or extend certain eligibility periods for your benefits. For example, you can use the Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) to set aside some of your income or resources to pay for items or services that can help you reach your work goals, such as education, training, or equipment. You can also use the Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE) to deduct the cost of items or services that you need to work because of your disability, such as transportation, assistive technology, or medical care. You can learn more about work incentives by visiting the Work Site² or by contacting a benefits counselor from your service provider.

– You can have protection from medical reviews while you participate in the Ticket to Work program. This means that Social Security will not review your disability status as long as you make timely progress toward your work goals, as defined by your individual work plan. You can also resume your benefits if you have to stop working because of your disability, without having to reapply, as long as you do so within certain time limits.

Hopefully you have found this article useful and informative, and that it has inspired you to pursue your work and financial goals. If you want to learn more about the topics we have covered, or if you have any questions or comments, please visit the Social Security website and feel free to contact us at tim@lifeafterblindness.com. We would love to hear from you! You can also visit our partner website, Get SSA Help, where you can find more information and assistance from Debi Schwartz, a certified benefits counselor who specializes in helping people with disabilities navigate the complex system of Social Security., Thank you for reading and remember: there truly can be a life after blindness.

Orientation and Mobility: A Guide for the Visually Impaired
February 5, 2024
Tim Schwartz
One Comment

Orientation and Mobility: A Guide for the Visually Impaired

Posted in Blog Posts

O&M training is a specialized instruction that teaches you how to orient yourself in your surroundings and travel safely and efficiently. If you have vision impairment, you may find it challenging to navigate your environment and move from one place to another. You may feel frustrated, anxious, or isolated by the barriers that limit your independence and mobility. However, you are not alone. There are many resources and services that can help you overcome these obstacles and achieve your goals. One of these is orientation and mobility (O&M) training.

In this article, you will learn more about what O&M training is, what skills and strategies it teaches, what devices it uses, and how to find an O&M specialist. You will also discover the benefits and challenges of O&M training, and debunk some common misconceptions about O&M training. Finally, you will find some tips and resources for living with vision impairment and enhancing your quality of life.

What is O&M training?

O&M training is a process of learning and practicing the techniques and methods that enable you to orient yourself and move around your environment. Orientation refers to the ability to know where you are, where you want to go, and how to get there. Mobility refers to the ability to move safely and efficiently from one place to another.

O&M training is usually provided by a certified O&M specialist, who is a professional with specialized education and experience in working with people with vision impairment. O&M specialists assess your needs, abilities, and goals, and design a personalized training plan for you. They also teach you how to use various mobility aids, such as a white cane or a guide dog, and how to access other resources and services that can assist you.

O&M training can take place in different settings, such as your home, school, workplace, or community. It can also vary in duration and intensity, depending on your needs and progress. O&M training is not a one-time event, but a lifelong learning process that adapts to your changing circumstances and aspirations.

What skills and strategies does O&M training teach?

O&M training teaches a range of skills and strategies that can help you navigate your environment and travel independently. Some of these include:

Skills

-Using your remaining senses, such as hearing, touch, and smell, to gather information about your surroundings and locate landmarks and cues.

– Using a white cane or a guide dog to detect and avoid obstacles, find edges and drop-offs, and follow a path or a route.

– Using a smartphone or a GPS device to access maps, directions, and other information that can help you plan and execute your trips.

– Using public transportation, such as buses, trains, or taxis, to reach your destinations and pay your fares.

– Crossing streets and intersections safely and confidently, using traffic sounds, pedestrian signals, and other cues.

– Asking for or accepting assistance from others when needed, and communicating your needs and preferences clearly and politely.

– Advocating for your rights and accessibility needs in various situations, such as requesting accommodations, reporting barriers, or filing complaints.

Strategies

– Mental mapping: Creating a mental map of your environment, including the location of buildings, intersections, and other landmarks.

– Verbalization: Describing your environment, including the location of objects and the direction you are facing.

– Memory techniques: Using memory techniques, such as mnemonics and spatial memory, to remember the layout of your environment.

– Route planning: Planning and following a route, including considering factors such as distance, time, and safety.

– Orientation checks: Regularly checking your orientation and making adjustments as needed.

What devices does O&M training use?

O&M training uses various devices and tools that can enhance your mobility and safety. Some of these devices include:

– A white cane, which is a long, lightweight stick that you hold in front of you and sweep from side to side. It helps you detect and avoid obstacles, find edges and drop-offs, and follow a path or a route. There are different types and sizes of white canes, and an O&M specialist can help you choose and use the one that suits you best.

– A guide dog, which is a specially trained dog that you harness and command to guide you along your way. It helps you avoid obstacles, find doors and stairs, and cross streets and intersections. A guide dog also provides companionship and social benefits. To get a guide dog, you need to apply to a guide dog school and undergo a matching and training process.

– A smartphone or a GPS device, which is a handheld device that you can use to access maps, directions, and other information that can help you plan and execute your trips. You can also use apps and features that are designed for people with vision impairment, such as voice output, magnification, or gesture control. You can also use headphones or earbuds to listen to the audio feedback without blocking your hearing.

– A currency identifier, which is a device that can help you recognize and count different bills and coins. It can be a standalone device that scans and announces the value of the money, or an app that you can use on your smartphone or a smartwatch.

– A signature guide, which is a device that can help you sign your name or fill out forms. It can be a plastic or metal card with a cut-out window that you place over the signature line or the blank space.

What are the benefits of O&M training?

O&M training can provide many benefits for you, such as:

– Enhanced confidence traveling in both familiar and unfamiliar environments

– Ability to utilize public transit independently

– Ability to safely cross streets and intersections

– Learning essential long cane skills necessary to apply to a dog guide school

– Improved understanding of orientation in relation to the environment

– Problem-solving skills that are transferable in a variety of environments

– Increased independence and participation in various activities

– Improved quality of life and well-being

O&M training can help you achieve your personal, educational, vocational, and recreational goals, and enable you to live with vision impairment more comfortably and successfully.

What are the challenges of O&M training?

O&M training can also pose some challenges for you, such as:

– Finding a qualified and accessible O&M specialist⁷

– Adjusting to the use of mobility aids, such as a white cane or a guide dog⁷

– Facing stigma or discrimination from others who may not understand or respect your needs⁷

– Dealing with emotional and psychological issues, such as fear, anxiety, or depression⁷

– Balancing safety and risk-taking in different situations⁷

– Coping with changes in your vision or other conditions that may affect your mobility⁷

O&M training requires motivation, commitment, and perseverance from you and your O&M specialist, as well as support from your family, friends, and community. It may not be easy, but it can be rewarding and empowering.

What are some common misconceptions about O&M training?

O&M training may also be misunderstood or misrepresented by some people, who may have some common misconceptions about O&M training, such as:

– O&M training is only for people who are totally blind: This is not true. O&M training is for anyone who has vision impairment that affects their ability to travel independently. Even if you have some residual vision, you may benefit from O&M training to learn how to use it effectively and supplement it with other skills and devices.

– O&M training is only for adults: This is not true. O&M training can be provided to people of all ages, from infants to seniors. O&M training can help children develop their sensory, motor, and cognitive skills, and prepare them for school and social activities. O&M training can also help adults adapt to changes in their vision or lifestyle, and maintain their independence and productivity.

– O&M training is only for people who want to use a white cane or a guide dog: This is not true. O&M training is not limited to teaching the use of mobility aids, such as a white cane or a guide dog. O&M training also teaches other skills and strategies, such as using your remaining senses, using a smartphone or a GPS device, using public transportation, crossing streets and intersections, asking for or accepting assistance, and advocating for your rights and accessibility needs.

– O&M training is a sign of weakness or dependence: This is not true. O&M training is a sign of strength and independence. O&M training can help you overcome the challenges and barriers that you may face due to your vision impairment, and enable you to achieve your goals and aspirations. O&M training can also help you build your confidence and self-esteem, and empower you to live with vision impairment more comfortably and successfully.

Orientation and mobility (O&M) training is a valuable service that can help you live with vision impairment and enhance your quality of life. It can teach you the skills, strategies, and devices that you need to orient yourself and move around your environment. It can also help you achieve your personal, educational, vocational, and recreational goals.

In this article, we have given you a comprehensive overview of O&M training and how it can help you. We have also debunked some common misconceptions about O&M training and explained its true value and purpose.

Orientation and mobility (O&M) training is a valuable service that can help you live with vision impairment and enhance your quality of life. It can teach you the skills, strategies, and devices that you need to orient yourself and move around your environment. It can also help you achieve your personal, educational, vocational, and recreational goals.

We hope that this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of O&M training and how it can help you live with vision impairment and enhance your quality of life. We also hope that this article has cleared up some common misconceptions about O&M training and helped you understand its true value and purpose.

We hope that you have found this article informative and helpful. If you have, please share it with others who might benefit from O&M training. You can also leave a comment below and let us know what you think. We would love to hear from you.

If you have any questions or comments, or if you would like to learn more about O&M training and other topics related to living with vision impairment, please contact us at Life After Blindness. You can send an email to our host Tim Schwartz at: tim@lifeafterblindness.com. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates and news.