Reimagining Independence: A look into the VA helping those with Vision Loss

Summary In this episode of Blindsight, host Bill Lundgren discusses VA services for military veterans with Heather Solberg, the Visual Treatment Coordinator at the VA. They cover topics such as enrollment in the VA, the services provided by the VA, the role of family in the program, and the mental health support available. The program serves veterans of all ages and visual difficulties, and offers a range of services including low vision therapy, assistive technology training, and adjustment to vision loss. The VA also provides telehealth services for veterans in rural areas. The episode concludes with a reminder about an upcoming hike and a thank you to service men and women. Takeaways VA services are available to military veterans of all ages and visual difficulties. The VA provides a range of services including low vision therapy, assistive technology training, and adjustment to vision loss. Telehealth services are available for veterans in rural areas. The VA offers mental health support and works closely with the mental health department. Family members are involved in the program and receive support and training. The program aims to help veterans become as independent as possible. The VA has a suicide prevention team available 24/7. The program addresses grief and loss as part of the adjustment to vision loss. Independence is defined differently for each individual and is not limited to traditional notions of independence. The episode concludes with a reminder about an upcoming hike and a thank you to service men and women. Chapters 00:00 VA Services for Military Veterans 04:17 Range of Services and Support 06:19 Telehealth for Rural Veterans 07:18 Mental Health Support and Suicide Prevention 09:19 Involvement of Family Members 11:16 Promoting Independence 12:43 Addressing Grief and Loss 16:31 Reimagining Independence Thank you for listening to this episode of Blindsight. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email or call us. [email protected] 720-712-8856. Have a wonderful holiday weekend.