Iowa Department for the Blind Independent Living Services
Rehabilitation teachers help blind and low-vision Iowans learn practical skills for maintaining independence in their homes and communities.
About
The Iowa Department for the Blind Independent Living Program provides blindness-skills training to people who are not primarily pursuing paid employment.
Rehabilitation teachers work with clients in their homes and communities and develop individualized training plans based on the activities the person wants to complete independently.
The program includes both younger-blind and older-blind services.
Services May Include
Preparing meals
Managing home appliances
Orientation and mobility with a long white cane
Braille and alternative ways of accessing print
Assistive and smart-device technology
Household organization and labeling
Money-management techniques
Recreation and community participation
Older Blind Services
The Older Individuals Who Are Blind portion of the program is designed for blind and low-vision Iowans age 55 and older.
Employment does not need to be the person’s primary goal.
Who They Serve
Blind and low-vision Iowa residents who meet current independent-living eligibility requirements and can benefit from blindness rehabilitation services.
Contact Information
Address: 524 Fourth Street, Des Moines, IA 50309-2364
Independent Living Website:Iowa Independent Living ServicesTelephone for Independent Living Program Administrator: 515-250-1184
Why We Recommend This Resource
This program is especially useful for people who want to remain independent but are not currently pursuing employment.
Training takes place in the person’s home and community, allowing instruction to focus directly on real everyday tasks.