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Free low vision talks aim to encourage and empower in Northern Va.
Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington presents two free October events with tips and resources for life with low vision
Vision rehabilitation specialist Suleiman Alibhai, O.D. will share vital tips, resources
Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington® will hold two free events in October to provide tips and resources to the Northern Virginia community living with low vision. Low vision rehabilitation expert Suleiman Alibhai, O.D., director of POB’s Low Vision Learning Center in Alexandria, will share vital information and solutions.
On Thursday, Oct. 9, Alibhai will join POB’s Low Vision Resource Group at The Emotional Impact of Vision Loss, a candid conversation where attendees can hear advice and information, ask questions and share personal experiences. The event will take place at Charles E. Beatley, Jr. Central Library in Alexandria from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
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On Wednesday, Oct. 22, Alibhai will serve as keynote speaker at ABCs of Low Vision Enhancement, an information session about practical solutions that enhance independent living. Attendees can also test out optical devices and vision aids with local low vision product specialist, Burt Levy. The event will take place at Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library in Falls Church from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The term “low vision” refers to vision loss that makes it difficult or impossible to complete daily tasks, even with usual corrective measures such as glasses or surgery. To cope with low vision, it is important to learn how to make the most of remaining vision and take advantage of assistive technologies and resources that can help retain independence. It is most common in individuals over the age of 65 and can be a result of other eye diseases or conditions such as age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma.
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“You have to find ways to adapt your vision to the world as it really is, and that’s what this low vision work is really about – it’s about rehabilitation,” Alibhai said at the 2014 Vision Matters Eye Research Symposium on June 9. “No matter what you’re experiencing, you will be able to adjust and adapt.”
POB invites all community members who are personally facing vision loss or who have family members with low vision to these important lectures, as well as anyone who wishes to learn more. For more information, visit youreyes.org/events.