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Low Vision Therapist - Career Profile |
Career OverviewMillions of people, especially in the over forty age group, are diagnosed with low vision. Low vision therapists help these people learn to use their remaining vision more efficiently, both with and without the use of optical devices.
Low vision therapists work with optometrists and ophthalmologists to help patients with low vision do close-up tasks like reading, writing, hand crafts or using a computer. Low vision therapists also help the patients with distance tasks like watching TV or reading signs.
Low vision therapists frequently provide follow-up training to patients in their schools, at their places of employment, and even in their homes. The therapists help patients with low vision to function more successfully in their environment by offering recommendations for improved lighting, enhanced contrast, reduced glare and improved organization. Low vision therapists’ clients range from children in residential schools for the blind to elderly people.
Some low vision therapists give Orientation and Mobility Instruction. This is a sequential process in which people with low vision are taught to make full use of their remaining senses so they can determine their position within their environment and move independently and safely from one place to another. They learn to move about in their classrooms, workplaces, homes and in the community.
Among the skills the Orientation and Mobility specialist teaches are:
- Concept development, which includes body image, and temporal, spatial, positional, directional and environmental concepts.
- Motor development, including motor skills required for balance, posture and gait, as well as using adaptive devices and techniques to help people with multiple disabilities.
- Sensory development, which includes visual, vestibular, auditory, tactile, kinesthetic, olfactory and proprioceptive senses and the interrelationships of these systems.
- Locating dropped objects.
- Cane techniques.
- Compass directions.
- Route planning.
- Techniques for travel in indoor environments, outdoor residential, mall travel, small and large business districts, and rural areas.
- Use of public transportation.
Other low vision therapists are rehabilitation teachers. They instruct people with vision impairment in the use of compensatory skills and assistive technology that will make it possible for them to live safe, productive and independent lives.
Among the rehabilitation teacher’s responsibilities are:
- Assessing and evaluating the visually impaired person’s needs at home, work, school and in the community.
- Developing and implementing programs of instruction, case management and record keeping.
- Helping the visually impaired person identify and use all available resources.
- Facilitate psychological adjustment to vision loss and blindness.
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Career RequirementsLow vision therapists must have at least a bachelor’s degree in education. They must pass a national certification examination administered by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP). They must sign a written statement agreeing to uphold a high ethical and professional standard.
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Job OutlookBecause of a growing and aging population, there will be a growing need for low vision therapists. Job opportunities will be there for qualified people.
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Career TrackLow vision therapists work in rehabilitation facilities, schools, outpatient departments of hospitals and nursing homes. They also work in patients’ homes. Low vision therapists can work as employees at institutions, but they also have the option of working independently, hiring out to patients, physicians, schools, etc.
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CompensationAccording to a 2002 survey, the average salary for orientation and mobility specialists is $46,500. The average salary for rehabilitation teachers is $37,000.
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