Nisha, a 60-year-old resident of New York City, is a survivor of both cancer and vision loss. Prior to experiencing significant vision impairment, resulting in a legal blindness diagnosis, Nisha worked as a lawyer and in IT sales. She said the loss of vision dramatically impacted her life. Nisha had concerns about her safety in navigating the outside world and her family shared the same worries.
Nisha connected with the RSA-administered Independent Living Services for Older Individuals Who Are Blind (IL-OIB) program at the New York State Commission for the Blind. The Commission assists individuals ages 55 and older who are experiencing vision loss gain the skills necessary to remain independent. Nisha chose to receive her training at VISIONS Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired, and participating in the Adaptive Living Skills training helped her adapt to her vision loss. She essentially had to “learn to walk again” and received training from an orientation and mobility specialist who provided her with the skills to safely navigate New York City using a white cane. She confidently learned to use paratransit, buses, trains and other modes of transportation. One of the many things Nisha loves to do is cook for others, but her visual impairment was interfering with this passion. She learned how to safely cook, label and organize her kitchen and home. Her favorite thing to cook is homemade pasta, and she is happy to be able to still serve her family and friends delicious food again.
Nisha is also in the process of learning braille for labelling and organizing. Learning braille also helps her choose the right floor in elevators and identify markers for room numbers. Technology is the great equalizer. Of course, she had used technology for many years, but when her vision declined, she struggled to accomplish many tasks with ease. Today, she is able to use screen reader software on her smartphone and computer to arrange transportation, get recipes, check her email and so much more. As Nisha became more confident, so did her children. By watching her grow and learn, they were able to see how fulfilling life can be as a visually impaired person. They are no longer worried about her safety. They know she just gets to be their mom. Today, she enjoys volunteering at the cancer hospital where she received treatment. The patients see her as an inspiration, while the volunteers and staff see her as an integral part of the team. Nisha expresses gratitude to everyone who supported her as she rediscovered her confidence and independence. Hear from Nisha, in her own words.