Nonprofit Organizations Sight-Loss Support Group of Central PA The number of individuals with sight loss is projected to rise as much as 72 percent by 2030, when the last of the baby boomers turn 65, according to a 2012 report by the National Institutes of Health. The most common conditions causing vision loss are macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataract, and hereditary diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa. The Sight-Loss Support Group of Central Pennsylvania offers hope and support to individuals as they adjust to the physical and emotional challenges of vision loss and develop strategies to regain independence. The organization provides a gateway to information and a strong community of people who help each other answer the question, “What do I do now?” Among the Sight-Loss Support Group’s programs and services are: • One-on-one peer counseling and support • Educational programs for community organizations • Expediting of referrals to the Pennsylvania Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services (the state rehabilitation agency) and North Central Sight Services (a Pennsylvania Association for the Blind agency) • Information on many topics of concern to individuals with sight loss and their families • Audio description via headphones for local theatrical performances and exhibits • Trained Festival Eyes guides for local arts festivals • Centre County Seeing Eye 4-H Puppy Raisers Program
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Healthy Vision: Make It Last a Lifetime Taking care of your eyes should be a priority, just like eating healthful food and exercising. Healthy vision can be yours well into your golden years. To keep your eyes healthy, get a comprehensive dilated eye exam. An eye care professional will use drops to widen your pupils to check for common vision problems and eye diseases. It’s the best way to find out if you need glasses or contacts, or are in the early stages of an eye-related disease. If you haven’t had an eye exam recently, schedule one now!
Festival Eyes at the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts Children’s Day
Sight-Loss Support Group of Central Pennsylvania 111 Sowers St., Suite 310, State College (814) 238-0132 · www.slsg.org
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