Free course to support people with sight loss

Over the last two years, alongside its regular services, Sight Support Ryedale has been running a unique project aimed at providing practical help for those in Ryedale who are living with the challenges of sight loss.

The lottery funded Optimeyes Project has successfully helped people throughout the area through home visits, preliminary eye screening tests and support groups to overcome some of the issues associated with age-related sight loss, providing much needed encouragement and helping to relieve the feelings of anxiety and isolation.

The final ‘Living with Sight Loss’ course being covered by Optimeyes Project will run on two consecutive Wednesdays (1 and 8 March).

It will include demonstrations of technology and aids for daily living, getting out and about, emotional wellbeing and healthy diet, and information about support available both locally and nationally.

Julie Atkinson, chief officer of Sight Support, is encouraging anyone with sight problems to get in touch.

She said: “Loss of sight in older age is more common than we think, but there is plenty of support available.”

For more information contact the Sight Support Ryedale office on 01653 698860.