Seniors
Imagine a future full of opportunity for all blind/low vision citizens! 
The Jernigan Institute established its seniors initiative because seniors are the fastest growing group of people becoming blind. We believe that with proper training and opportunity all blind people can lead full and productive lives. This includes those who have lost vision as part of aging or those who have had sudden vision loss late in life. The NFB Jernigan Institute promotes a positive attitude about blindness to seniors with vision loss and provides information and services to help them maintain control over their lives. Our philosophy toward blindness and vision loss mirrors an essential attitude in today’s society, one of confidence in and respect for the ability of older people to determine the course of their later years. The goal of our initiative is to improve resources and opportunities for blind senior citizens so that they may remain active, independent members of their communities.
Learn more about Jernigan Institute Education Programs
What We’re Doing Now
- Low Vision Resource Kit for Seniors, which includes items such as large print playing cards, a talking key chain clock, and a check writing guide.
- NFB-NEWSLINE®, a service that makes hundreds of newspapers available to those who can no longer read regular newsprint
- National Federation of the Blind Seniors Division—a membership organization of elderly blind persons providing support and information to other blind seniors. Issues include concerns such as remaining active in community and social life, maintaining private homes or living in retirement communities or nursing homes, learning the techniques used by the blind, independently caring for oneself, and maintaining a positive approach to vision loss.
- National Organization of the Senior Blind Listserv, which allows members to ask questions, share answers, and provide encouragement to other blind seniors.
- Diabetes Action Network—a support and information organization of persons losing vision due to diabetes. The Network provides resource information and contact with other blind diabetics. Network members share nonvisual techniques for independently managing diabetes, monitoring glucose levels, measuring insulin, and other matters concerning diabetes.
What We’ve Done
For More Information
Contact:
Treva Olivero – Coordinator
Jernigan Institute
National Federation of the Blind
(410) 659-9314, ext. 2295
Every dollar makes a difference. Support the Seniors Initiative through the Imagination Fund!
