How to Get Around Stores, Streets, and Surroundings Safely and Confidently

This week we have the privilege of hearing from Lynne Laney, an Orientation and Mobility specialist. She assists in training people who have macular degeneration on how to safely and comfortably navigate their surroundings.

Orientation and Mobility Training

Perhaps you have never heard of an Orientation and Mobility specialist or why you would benefit from meeting with one. Let me give you an example of a situation where this knowldege could have been of benefit to someone with macular degeneration.

I know my mother-in-law would have wished that her husband, my father-in-law had had this training to have helped them in one of their recent travel adventures. My father-in-law, who has wet macular degeneration, had gone to the restroom shortly before their plane was to board. When he left the restroom he got disoriented and couldn't find his departing gate. He finally made it back to the correct gate just before the doors were to close.

There are several different strategies a person can use to safely and independently navigate their environment - whether it's at a store, at a movie theater, or at the airport. Lynn gives us insight and details on how orientation and mobility training can help those with macular degeneration, like my father-in-law, get around safely and independently.

How You Can Gain Confidence When Traveling, Shopping, Exploring or Walking

Leslie Degner, RN, BSN

Better Health for Better Vision