All programs are year round in a group and/or on an individual bases depending on the needs of the client.
Our Adult Programs include:
Adult Programs for the Blind in Naples FL
Independent Daily Living Skills
The Lighthouse provides an ongoing, weekly Independent Living Skills Class.
This course introduces a variety of tools, tips and techniques. Examples of topics include: strategies to increase visual access in the home; tools and tips for safely accessing the kitchen; tips for identifying and labeling medications; low to high tech tools and technology to access money and paperwork.
Low Vision Training
The majority of our clients have some remaining vision. We therefore teach clients techniques to optimize use of their residual vision; such as: controlling glare, increasing contrast or adjusting lighting. Additionally, we provide training in the use of low vision aids, including prescribed optical devices and video magnifiers.
Assistive Technology
The Lighthouse of Collier takes an individualized, client driven approach with all members who engage in services. The client’s wishes and goals drive the services offered. It is understood that people have different learning styles and may learn at a different pace. The Lighthouse of Collier offers individualized and group instruction and makes every effort to accommodate scheduling needs.
Meeting with an assistive technology (AT) specialist and engaging in training allows the individual who is blind or visually impaired the opportunity to successfully utilize computer technology within their home, school or work setting. Instruction is available for Windows and Apple users to successfully navigate their machines, write emails, utilize calendars, browse the internet, and so much more.
Meeting with an AT specialist and engaging in training also allows the individual the opportunity to successfully utilize mobile devices (iPhone, iPad, Android platform) and benefit from the applications available which were designed for those who are blind or who live with visual impairments.
Individuals who successfully complete AT training are able to incorporate technology into their day to day tasks- paying bills, managing accounts, shopping on-line, and communicating with friends and family. Individuals who successfully complete AT training can confidently and independent manage their own technology needs and have a competitive edge in today’s job market.
Orientation and Mobility
We also provide Orientation and Mobility training (O&M). O&M is a profession that focuses on teaching individuals with vision loss how to safely and efficiently navigate their homes and communities. Some examples of O&M training include: trailing walls and furniture to safely navigate homes, using the long white cane to navigate curbs and sidewalks, walking with a sighted guide and/or using auditory skills to safely cross intersections.
Support Groups
Adjustment to vision loss can be a journey. At the Lighthouse, we offer counseling for individuals and their caregivers and weekly support groups. All “Adjustment to Vision Loss” support groups are facilitated by an experienced staff member with vision loss. In these groups, members explore solutions to dealing with vision loss and make connections with others who can relate.
Vocational Rehabilitation
Vocation Rehabilitation services are designed for adult clients who want to either maintain employment or obtain employment. Clients who are employed may be in need of specialized equipment, training or accommodations to enable them to continue their work. Clients who wish to obtain employment may receive comprehensive training in all areas of the curriculum, including extensive assistive technology training.
Recreation and Leisure
Exploring nature, cultural and art events, yoga, healthy and active living workshops; these are just a few of the social and recreational opportunities the Lighthouse of Collier provides to clients throughout the year.
Our Recreation and Leisure services programming allows people of all ages the chance to connect with other blind or visually impaired individuals who are also eager to explore new activities and hobbies.
Whether they are attending an audio descriptive movie, hiking with CREW or creating clay projects in collaboration with Naples Art Center, Lighthouse of Collier clients are constant proof that the inability to see in no way correlates with an inability to live life to the fullest.
Our Recreation and Leisure offerings also include:
- Arts and craft programs
- Yoga, meditation, and other exercise opportunities
- Boat rides with Freedom Waters
