Do you have trouble holding a book to read? Focusing your eyes to read? Making sense of the squiggles on the paper? You may even have good vision, and still have a "print handicap."

A print handicap is any condition which makes it difficult or impossible for you to read conventional printed materials. It may be a vision problem, a physical limitation which makes it hard to hold a book, or a cognitive problem temporarily resulting from a brain surgery.

Most states have programs to assist people who have print handicaps. Libraries for the Blind and Physically Handicapped lend audio books and players to people who qualify for the program.

Mrs. Betty B. from Tennessee has graciously volunteered to talk with anyone who has concerns about visual impairment or coping with printed materials in new ways. Betty has VHL and has been blind for many years. She has three daughters and two grandchildren, and is an active teacher of Braille.

Please call the hotline at 1-800-767-4VHL, and ask for an appointment to speak with Betty.

Vision and Independence

Question: I have a family member who is experiencing visual problems and needs help in everyday activities. Is there a place I can contact for assistance?

Answer: There are several organizations that can provide help including training for home activities, visual aids, work training, audio tapes and braille material. The American Council for the Blind (1-800-424-8666) can provide information including the contact number for your State Division of Services for the Blind, which you can then contact directly. The Lions Clubs of America can also be a resource.

Contact your local Lions Club for information. Other sources would be:

American Foundation for the Blind (1-800-232-5463).

Catalogs may be ordered through The Lighthouse (1-800-829-0500), including Games in Large Print.
Maxi-Aids Catalog (1-800-522-6294) - Low and High Tech Products for challenged individuals
American Printing House for the Blind (1-800-223-1839) - tapes and other products
Independent Living Aids (1-800-527-2118).
You may also order A Resource Guide for People with Sight Loss through your local bookstore (ISBN 09-929718-14-3, $43.95).

As published in the VHL Family Forum, 3:4, December 1995. For permission to reprint, please contact the VHL Family Alliance, editor@vhl.org. Further information is available from the VHL Family Alliance, info@vhl.org.