The first online information portal for the eye health sector and people with impaired vision has been launched. Developed by Guide Dogs NSW/ACT the new website is dedicated to the issue of vision loss and gives people affected by the condition information on how and where to access necessary services as quickly as possible.
The site features sections on different vision conditions, details on local service links to support groups and industry bodies and an interactive discussion forum. Its aim is to provide eyecare professionals, people experiencing vision loss and the public a single portal of information.
The website is accessible for those who are blind or vision impaired with features including options for text to be read by a screen reader, enlarged or even the contrast changed to make it easier to read.
“After many years working with the eye health industry and people who are blind or vision impaired, we realised there was an opportunity to create a central online site about vision loss,” said Guide Dogs NSW/ACT marketing manager, Charles Ulm. He added that people experiencing trouble getting around because of vision loss are encouraged to seek help early. “Some may not know how to do this quickly so the new website is designed to be that solution.”
According to Sydney Centre for Eye Health director, Professor Michael Kalloniatis, once a person is diagnosed with a serious vision condition, eye health professionals may be unaware of the rehabilitation services available. “This website fills a gap in providing that information.”
- It is estimated that by 2020, the number of Australians with a vision condition that cannot be corrected will rise 20 per cent to 350,000 including 115,000 who are blind
- The prevalence of vision loss trebles with each decade of life over the age of 40
- 75 per cent of vision loss is preventable with early intervention
For more information visit: www.visionloss.com.au