HHSC Spreads Awareness of Low Vision in February

The HHSC Blindness Education, Screening and Treatment (BEST) Program is spreading awareness about vision loss during Low Vision Awareness Month in February. The BEST program works with Prevent Blindness Texas to provide blindness prevention education and resources to Texas residents.

Together with the HHSC Blind Children’s Program, BEST has established a theme for this year’s campaign of “See What I See: The Impact of Eye Disease and Low Vision.” The campaign will engage staff and the public in activities that help them understand what those living with eye disease and low vision experience daily.

“Low vision is a term that encompasses a range of visual impairments that cannot be fully corrected with glasses or contact lenses,” program specialist Lena Deary said. “Millions of Texans have some type of visual impairment which can make everyday activities like reading, driving or recognizing faces difficult. This can also lead to decreased independence or quality of life.”

This year’s in-person event, “See What I See: Experiencing Low Vision,” will be held on Feb. 12 at the North Austin Complex (NAC), 4601 West Guadalupe St. Using simulation goggles, participants will engage in activities that simulate the effects of low vision.

HHSC staff and visitors can stop by the NAC lobby display from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to participate in the simulation activities.

About Blind Children’s Program and BEST

Blind Children’s Program provides a variety of services to children across Texas who are blind or visually impaired. Services include hands-on training in skills needed for independence in the home, community and preparation for adult life.

The BEST Program provides blindness prevention education and resources, free vision screenings to identify conditions that may cause blindness, and financial assistance for eye treatment to Texas residents 18 and older who may otherwise lose their vision without assistance.

For more information visit the Blind Children’s Vocational Discovery and Development Program and the Blindness Education, Screening and Treatment Program websites.