MEEKER | As people age, they are far more likely to have serious age-related eye conditions. According to Prevent Blindness America (2012), the four leading eye diseases affecting older Americans, age 65 and older, are age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. These diseases along with neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, strokes and brain trauma can result in significant vision loss resulting in low vision.
Generally, individuals with low vision make up an extremely underserved population. Local resources can be scarce in rural areas of Colorado, and Meeker is no exception. Many people suffering with vision loss do not drive themselves and often rely on friends, family, and public transportation to get places. Many travel to cities like Greeley, Denver and Fort Collins to access services and consult doctors regarding vision loss. This can add up to thousands of miles just for specialist visits. Ensight saw a great need to offer a solution to alleviate some of the strain for individuals seeking visual rehabilitation.
The Ensight Skills Center for visual rehabilitation has created a new program to help individuals in need of services. Ensight’s new Onsite program will allow for an optometrist and an occupational therapist, both specializing in low vision, to come to Meeker to provide a presentation that will explain what Ensight’s programs are and how to schedule an appointment for the summer Onsite clinic.
The presentation will be held Wednesday, June 20 at 10 a.m. at the Meeker Public Library. To reserve a seat email [email protected] or call Ensite at 866-375-5693. For more information on the Onsite program, call 1-866-375-5693 or email [email protected].