Orientation and Mobility

"Orientation and Mobility is special training to help a person with a vision impairment get from one place to another as safely, efficiently, and independently as possible."

Andrea Story, Parent-Infant Educator SESA



Orientation and Mobility Specialist

The O&M specialist begins by an assessment of not only the individual's visual and physical abilities, but also their motivation. Training may include the use of low vision aids, canes and guide dogs.

The specialist can:

1) Evaluate the skills (not your vision) you use to get around and

2) Teach you methods of getting around your home, office, church, grocery stores, etc.

You will be taught how to:

√ Make your home safe

√ Climb stairs safely

√ Avoid falls & injuries

√ Cross streets

√ Use public transportation like buses or subways

Vision Losses for those with Macular Degeneration

People with macular degeneration often experience vision losses of:

Depth perception - making it difficult to identify how high or low a step or curb is

Contrast sensitivity - making it hard to see curbs or steps, or not being able to differentiate between a puddle or a hole in the sidewalk

Color Perception - making it hard to tell if the walk light is on

Distance problems - making it hard to tell how far away an object is

Blind spot in the center of vision - hard to see any obstacle in your path or identify a person right in front of you

Mobility & Orientation Training for Low Vision

O & M specialists will help you to have more confidence by teaching you to:

Utilize your peripheral vision

Utilize your other senses

Use another person traveling with you

Use a white cane

Use a dog guide

The method(s) chosen will be determined by your current visual status, the ability to detect dangerous obstacles (such as stairs, curbs, moving vehicles or people) in enough time to react safely and, of course, personal preference.

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Conctact Leslie Degner, RN, BSN

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