February is Low Vision Awareness Month

Graphic reads “February is Low Vision Awareness Month” with vision and accessibility icons

Low Vision Awareness Month

February is Low Vision Awareness Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 7 million people in the United States experience vision loss or live with low vision. Low vision is defined as a permanent and significant loss of visual function—such as visual acuity or visual field—that cannot be fully corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery.

Adjusting to vision loss or living with low vision can have a meaningful impact on daily life. It may affect activities such as cooking, accessing information and technology, and traveling independently to work, school, or other important destinations.

The Iowa Department for the Blind is here to support individuals with low vision as they build independence and develop the skills needed for success. Our Vocational Rehabilitation services offer training and support to help individuals maintain independence, access technology and information, explore or return to employment, travel confidently, and manage everyday life skills.

Our Services for Low Vision Iowans

  • Pre-Employment Transition — Dynamic workplace readiness training in a variety of engaging environments designed to prepare students (ages 14-21) for post-secondary opportunities.
  • Vocational Rehabilitation — Through counseling and training programs, vocational rehabilitation counselors work with clients to achieve their career goals.
  • Independent Living — Rehabilitation teachers provide the non-visual skill training necessary for a person to maintain their desired level of independence while living in their home and community.
  • Orientation Center — Located in Des Moines, the Orientation Center (OC) provides courses and training tracks that are designed to fit your life.
  • Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled — Bringing alternative formats (books and magazines in audio, braille, electronic text, and large print) to Iowans who are unable to read standard print.

Learn More

If you want to learn more about the Iowa Department for the Blind's programs and services, please contact us.