Katie Frederick, Author at ConnectCenter

About Katie Frederick

Katie Frederick is the Digital Content Manager for VisionAware, part of the APH ConnectCenter. She has worked in federal and state government, higher education, and nonprofit leadership. Katie advocates for people who are blind or low vision.

Walking and Hiking with Vision Loss: Your Guide to Confident Outdoor Exploration

Walking and hiking are phenomenal ways to maintain fitness, boost mental health, and fully engage with the outdoors, regardless of your level of vision. You actively explore new places, stimulate your senses, and improve your overall well-being. Living with vision loss doesn’t mean you must restrict these invigorating activities; instead, you adapt your approach and […]

Tandem Bicycling for People Who are Blind or Low Vision

Mature couple riding through grass on a tandem bicycle

Tandem cycling, better known as a “bicycle built for two,” is an exhilarating and empowering activity for individuals with blindness or low vision. It allows riders to experience the immense joy, speed, and camaraderie of cycling by partnering with a sighted rider. According to many enthusiastic participants, tandem cycling can be highly social, immense fun, […]

Using Landlines, Smartphones, and Tablets if You’re Blind

Adjusting to vision changes can present new challenges, but it doesn’t have to mean giving up the simple pleasure and convenience of using a telephone. You’ve likely used a phone without much thought for years, but recent vision changes can make this familiar activity problematic. Common issues for adults who are blind or have low […]

Regain Confidence with Orientation & Mobility Programs

Posted on September 17, 2025 - 2:09 pm by Katie Frederick

cartoon image of person traveling with a white cane and a guide dog in a neighborhood with German-style architecture

For individuals who are blind or low vision, the journey toward independent travel is both practical and deeply personal. While Orientation and Mobility (O&M) is a foundational skill for safe and confident movement, many adults face a significant challenge: finding accessible O&M services. In states across the country, a lack of qualified providers creates a […]

Helping Relatives with Blindness or Low Vision Maintain Independence

Arrows pointing up stair steps aimed at a target

“I know Dad is having trouble with his eyes. Every time I visit, he breaks a plate or a vase and blames it on other people ‘moving things around.’ But when I suggest that he get his eyes examined, he won’t discuss it. How can I get him to see? Declining vision inevitably has a […]

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