HARRISBURG -- Coleman Tri-County Services Visually Impaired Program has been notified it will no longer be able to provide services for local clients, thanks to a budget cut from the state.
Carbondale's Program for the Visually Impaired also was cut at the same time.
Now, the closest location to receive services will be either Belleville or Alton, program director Debbie Oglesby says, and transportation becomes an issue.
Coleman has provided services for elderly blind clients in Saline, Gallatin, White, Pope, Hardin, Wayne, Wabash, Edwards, and Hamilton counties. The state's Department of Human Services axed the $79,726 that would have funded the program, Oglesby said.
"We have been awarded this grant every year since 1997," she said. "We serve individuals with severe visual loss. The referrals come from optometrists who have diagnosed the patients with macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, inoperable cataracts, etc. They send the referrals to us to assess what services and equipment that would be able to help them improve their quality of life."
Oglesby said services provided are extensive.
"The equipment might consist of magnification or talking devices such as talking watches, talking thermometers, weight scales and blood pressure monitors. We provide low-tech and high-tech assistive devices and equipment for the consumers to assist them in coping with the loss of their vision."
Support groups also are part of the program so consumers may meet and socialize, plus hear various guest speakers.
"All of our consumers seem to enjoy these meetings and social time," she said.
Oglesby said the program is designed to optimize life for the visually impaired.
"Losing your vision does not necessarily mean the loss of independence," she said. "This program has been established for the rehabilitation of the elderly population to enable them to continue to live independently at home. The Visually Impaired Program helps seniors live life to the fullest. We have the determination to make a difference in the lives of seniors 55 or older."
Oglesby asks that residents contact their local state legislators and ask that the funding be restored.
