In our Independent Living program, rehabilitation teachers work with blind and low-vision Iowans in their homes and communities. They provide the non-visual skill training necessary for a person to maintain their desired level of independence while living in their home and community.
Our younger blind program is designed for blind and low-vision Iowans up to 54 years of age.
Our older blind program is designed for blind and low-vision Iowans ages 55 and older.
June Super CBT – Highlights from a Productive Week
From Monday, June 3 to Saturday, June 7, ten participants engaged in our Super CBT event, which included classes, hands-on learning, and social activities.
Our Rehabilitation Teachers will meet with the client in their own home to create a training plan that is tailored to meet their individual needs. Once a plan is in place, Rehabilitation teachers will continue to work with the client in their own home to achieve their goals and maintain their independence.
Community Based Trainings (CBTs) are held regionally across Iowa, bringing training to communities near clients. These one-day sessions typically last six hours, and focus on two to three key non-visual skills. The group setting creates a supportive environment for clients by providing an opportunity to work with other blind individuals in their area.
A Super Community-Based Training (Super CBT) is a multi-day training experience held at the Iowa Department for the Blind in Des Moines, IA. Clients work with rehabilitation teachers in their individual vocational rehabilitation, independent living, and training goals while also building self-confidence and a positive attitude toward blindness.
During the week, clients also have the opportunity to work alongside students in the Iowa Empowerment and Independence Center (IBEIC) and join a Lunch & Learn with members of the Iowa Council of the United Blind and the National Federation of the Blind of Iowa (Des Moines Chapters).
Non-visual skill training
Non-visual skill training may include:
Preparing meals
Managing home appliances
Obtaining assistive devices
Learning to navigate using a long white cane
Learning braille and other techniques for accessing print material
Managing money - including organizing and identifying cards and currency
Promoting leisure and social activities
Managing communication using smart devices - phones, iPads/tablets, and smart devices
Labeling and managing household items - pantry items, clothing, personal care items, cleaning items, and mail
Managing a secondary disability
Submit a Referral
Please use this form to submit a referral to the Iowa Department for the Blind. Enter the name of the individual being referred to the Iowa Department for the Blind. We will contact the person referred to discuss our services and answer any questions.