VisionAware Blog Archives

February Proclaimed Low Vision Awareness Month

Posted on February 11, 2026 - 8:55 am by Pris Rogers

woman look at pill bottle through a magnifier

Every year the National Eye Institute (NEI) designates February as Low Vision Awareness Month. APHVisionAware is partnering with NEI to promote this important event. Why? The numbers of older people with low vision are increasing and are projected to grow dramatically over the next several years. As noted by the National Eye Institute, “A visual impairment […]

After an AMD Diagnosis: Steps That Helped My Mom Adjust

Posted on February 2, 2026 - 8:30 am by edhenkler

Jane Henkler is smiling and sitting inside a plane while her son, Ed, is also smiling and leaning on the wing.

When the phone rang in the mid-1990s, I didn’t realize it was the start of a chapter that would redefine my life’s work. My mother, Jane Henkler, was on the other end, telling me she had been diagnosed with macular degeneration. At the time, I had no idea what that meant. I just knew that […]

Blindness is Not Helplessness: Mistie’s Medical Story

Posted on September 19, 2025 - 3:17 pm by Mistie Hale

Author standing in front of a wall with large flowers

Medical professionals are trained to heal, yet at times forget to listen. For patients who are blind or have low vision, this can mean a hospital stay filled with misunderstandings and unmet needs, in addition to their medical treatment. Medical care should focus on treating a patient’s condition with respect, professionalism, and understanding. Unfortunately, this […]

VRT Week 2025: Spotlight on Life-Changing Vision Services

Posted on April 8, 2025 - 12:08 pm by Steve Kelley

Editor’s Note: The APH ConnectCenter updated the following blog as of March 2025. We observe Vision Rehabilitation Therapist (VRT) Appreciation Week annually on Anne Sullivan’s birthday (April 14, 1866). This year, VRT Week will occur from April 13 to 19, 2025. Anne Sullivan was the home teacher who taught Helen Keller the skills she later used as […]

A Road to Independence: Remote Learning for Adults with Vision Loss

Posted on November 18, 2024 - 12:42 pm by Katie Frederick

older person sits outside and uses smartphone and laptop for virtual learning

A recent diagnosis of vision loss can be overwhelming and disheartening. However, it’s important to remember that there is life beyond this challenge. Specialized training can equip individuals with the skills and confidence to navigate their new reality. With the right support, a positive and hopeful future is attainable. Traditional Vision Rehabilitation Training Vision Rehabilitation […]

Older posts