Lighthouse Guild Offers Travel Tips for People with Glaucoma or Other Eye Disorders
World Glaucoma Week is March 7-13
NEW YORK (March 9, 2021) – Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of visual impairment globally, affecting over 60 million people worldwide. People with glaucoma as well as those with other eye disorders can face particular challenges traveling as their vision changes. Problems with reading, bright lights/glare, peripheral vision and walking due to the inability to see curbs and steps may seem insurmountable. However, there are some guidelines that can help people who are visually impaired to maintain their independence and move around safely and with confidence in their communities and beyond.
The Mobility Training Program at Lighthouse Guild offers the following tips:
- Be aware of social distancing and other guidelines related to COVID-19.
- Gather information about your destination and decide the best method to get there as far in advance as possible.
- Ask customer service representatives for help getting around bus and train stations and airports.
- Hold on to handrails when exiting and entering buses.
- Ask bus drivers to announce stops.
- Ask fellow passengers if the train pulling into the station is the expected train.
- Avoid missing the right stop on the train by being familiar with the names of other stops and allowing enough time to get off the train.
- Call ahead to airports at least 48-hours in advance to arrange assistance with check-in, boarding and baggage claim.
- Consider receiving training with a white cane. They have worked for over 100 years, and they remain one of the best tools to provide tactile information as well as identify that a person is legally blind.
“People with vision impairment may feel anxious about crossing streets, navigating in unfamiliar areas, or taking public transportation,” says Carol Moog, Senior Mobility Instructor at Lighthouse Guild. “Vision rehabilitation and mobility training can provide techniques and skills designed to improve travel independence.”
Technology including screen readers and apps that can identify money and objects can also help with independent travel for people with glaucoma and others with low vision.
About Lighthouse Guild
Lighthouse Guild is dedicated to providing exceptional services that inspire people who are visually impaired to attain their goals. We provide coordinated care for eye health, vision rehabilitation and behavioral health as well as related services. Our podcast series, “On Tech & Vision with Dr. Cal Roberts” offers information and insights about technological innovations that are tearing down barriers for people who are blind or visually impaired. For more information, visit Lighthouseguild.org.