Surrey Association for Visual Impairment. Making a visible difference in Surrey.
The Rehabilitation Team
Sight loss can have serious and far-reaching consequences in the lives of individuals and their families. Some people find it helpful to talk through their feelings or to discuss the practical problems they are experiencing. SAVI's Rehabilitation Team is here to help.
The Rehabilitation Team is funded by a contract with Surrey County Council to support people who have high-risk needs. The team consists of Rehabilitation Officers and a Social Worker who are trained to work with visually impaired people and their carers to help them cope with the emotional aspects of sight loss, and achieve greater independence and a better quality of life. If you are being offered registration, a member of the Rehabilitation Team will visit you, by appointment, to discuss the benefits and services available to you. All services are offered free of charge.
The Rehabilitation Officers within the team can give advice and instruction on how to deal with everyday tasks. They are able to demonstrate equipment and to suggest ways of solving practical problems from putting toothpaste on a toothbrush to cooking a 4-course meal!
If you are finding it difficult getting around safely both indoors and outside, a Rehabilitation Officer can suggest different ways of crossing roads, or finding your way by making use of residual vision and the other senses, e.g. hearing and touch. If appropriate, the range of white canes and sticks can be discussed and a suitable one issued. Anyone can have their mobility needs assessed and an individual training programme designed for them.
People who have enjoyed reading often feel frustrated if they can no longer read print. Good lighting and the use of low vision aids can sometimes be the answer. Other solutions may include learning Braille, Moon, or Touch Typing, which can be done via regular lessons at home or, in some areas at a weekly class. If you are interested in finding out more about any of the Rehabilitation Team's services, please contact SAVI and one of the Team will be delighted to discuss your needs with you.
Talking It Over
Counselling and Social Work Service
People experiencing sight loss can have many painful thoughts and feelings. They are often depressed or anxious about how to cope. Losing sight is often compared to bereavement.
Whatever you feel, it can take time to adjust and come to terms with what is happening. Sometimes there is friction with the family members as you try to cope with what you feel, and struggle to maintain your independence. It is often helpful to talk these kinds of things over with someone outside your family who will treat what you say in confidence. By talking it over, you can gain greater understanding of your feelings, and find ways of coping with the changes that are happening.
At SAVI, we have staff with counselling skills and extensive experience of helping people with coming to terms with a loss of vision. If your difficulties require a more practical solution we may be able to facilitate contact with other agencies such as the Benefits Agency, Housing Department or organisations that provide funds.
Head of Rehabilitation Services Profile
Find out more about SAVI Head of Rehabilitation Services, Sandra Gregory
Sight Loss
Learn about the most common eye conditions that can cause visual impairment.
Macular Disease
Cataract
Diabetic Retinopathy
Glaucoma
