Vision impairments and blindness rank third among physical disabilities that restrict activities of the elderly. The In-Home Rehabilitation for the Elderly Program is designed to assist blind or visually impaired Delaware County residents age 55 or older in developing skills needed to maintain their independence. Training is given in the following areas:

Home Management Our goal is to help seniors to live safely, comfortably, and efficiently within their home environment. Instructors teach techniques for cooking safely, identifying canned goods, freezer items and medicines, managing laundry and housekeeping tasks, and keeping the household well-organized. Staff also assist with marking appliances and with evaluating and implementing safety related changes within the home.

Communications Seniors learn new ways to communicate using basic braille or large print materials, adaptive writing aids, and audio enhanced technology. Instructors introduce simple methods for dealing with everyday tasks such as money identification, telling time and using the telephone.

Orientation & Mobility Training
Instructors teach clients to travel safely within their environment. Seniors develop orientation skills and learn white cane techniques.

Leisure Time Activities
Clients discuss challenges arising from vision loss which affect recreational or social activities. Instructors assist by providing adaptive ways to meet these challenges. Counseling Caring is the key. Our In-Home instructors help clients to develop realistic and positive attitudes towards living a rewarding life. Clients who have additional needs may be referred to other services offered by the agency or outside sources.

For more information about In-Home Rehabilitation, call the In-Home Instructors at 610-874-1476, ext. 152.