Did you know?
*There are approximately 10 million blind and visually impaired people in the United States today.
*The five main causes of blindness are:
| 1) Macular Degeneration |
| 2) Glaucoma |
| 3) Cataracts |
| 4) Diabetic Retinopathy |
| 5) Retinitis Pigmentosa |
Visually impaired and people who are blind use a variety of techniques to complete daily activities such as mobility and reading.
Mobility
Many people who have visual impairments travel independently either with a cane or a guide dog. A cane is used to extend the range of touch sensation to detect obstacles in the user’s path. It can be swept low across the ground or lightly tapped through the path. Guide dogs can be trained to navigate blind people safely through various obstacles on their route. The dog is the pilot and the handler is the navigator.
Reading
Those who are not totally blind can read enlarged print with magnification devices. Others may read Braille or rely on reading machines.
Greater web accessibility for the visually impaired is becoming more within reach. Modern web browsers can increase the size of text on web pages making it easier to surf the internet.
LC Industries takes pride in knowing that its philanthropic efforts may help prevent future generations of blindness. The Duke University Eye Center receives a donation from LC Industries each year to help conduct vital research to eradicate diseases and conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration.