Ohio Department of Aging
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July 2007
Vision Loss, Other Impairments Don't Have to Mark the End of Reading
The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that more than 3 million Ohioans are visually impaired and more than 71,000 Ohio residents have severe vision problems or blindness. Lighthouse International statistics show 21 percent of Ohioans report some form of vision impairment. The American Federation of the Blind estimates that 1 in 6 people age 65 or older are blind or have severe visual impairment, a rate expected to double by the year 2030.
Most of us take our reading abilities for granted until the onset of vision loss. It can be difficult for seniors with vision problems to remain connected to their community. Without timely news, consumer information and community service reports from printed sources, it is nearly impossible for these seniors to be fully participating citizens.
For many, unfortunately, the loss of vision can also mean the loss of a valuable connection to society. This can be particularly troubling to seniors who have spent their lives being connected and may view this disconnect as "one of those things" that come with aging.
But it does not have to be.
The Ohio Radio Reading Services (RRS) provides daily broadcasts of volunteers reading newspapers, magazines and ads, enabling listeners to be aware of local events, election information, grocery and department store ads, back-page stories, sports and even "Dear Abby" and the comics. Ohio Radio Reading Services are provided at no cost to qualified persons who have difficulty using standard printed materials.
The Ohio Telephone Reader allows clients to get information without following a set broadcast schedule. Clients call toll-free from anywhere in the state at any time of day, every day of the week to hear information from newspapers from all over Ohio, TV schedules and other publications.
To apply, visit the Ohio Radio Reading Services online at www.ohioradioreadingservices.org or call the Radio Reading Service Coordinator, at (614) 644-1714, to locate the Reading Service in your area.
Next month, we'll explore the talking books service provided by the National Library Service.
Ohio Department of Aging