Greeting

[londy]

Hi I am Londiwe living with albinism condition. Having a low vidsion trablees me. How and whre can i get help?

[marianS]

Dear Londy,

To receive help with Low Vision there are several support services that may be helpful;

- If you are under an eye specialist doctor- Ophthalmologist, you can ask to see someone at the Low Vision Clinic at the hospital.

- Alternatively, the Sensory team who are part of Social Services, are able to assess and help you, and may also see you in your own home.

- Finally there are vision support groups and resource centres attached to “Blind Associations” in the community.

If you ring the Macular Society Helpline on telephone number below, we can direct you to the ones nearest where you live.

We have several leaflets that talk about ways or gadgets to help you manage life with low vision. These are available on our website in print or audio here:

macularsociety.org/resources

I suggest these titles:

Lighting

Low Vision Aids

Daily Living Skills

Using Technology

Also, if you sight is poor and troublesome, you can choose to be “registered” as either sight impaired (SI), or severely sight impaired (SSI). This has to be done by your specialist, but may be able to help you get concessions with travel, TV and phone services. Please see our leaflet telling more:

macularsociety.org/sites/de...

You do not say how old you are, but people with macular problems are mostly in older age groups but I guess you may be in a younger age group. You may find that the RNIB have some helpful information of added relevance – see this link

rnib.org.uk/practical-help.

Are you aware of a charity that is a voluntary organisation relating to your condition and gives the opportunity for support and meeting others socially?

albinism.org.uk/

I hope this is helpful to you.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if we can be of any further help. The Macular Society helpline is open 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday on 0300 3030 111.

Alternately, you can contact us via:

[e-mail]