RSA-7-OB for FY-2025: Submission #23
Instructions
Submittal Instructions
Grantees of the Independent Living Services for Older Individuals who are Blind (OIB) program must complete and submit their annual RSA 7-OB Report online through RSA’s website (https://rsa.ed.gov).
To register with RSA’s MIS, go to https://rsa.ed.gov and click on Info for new users. The link provides instructions for obtaining an agency- specific username and password. Further instructions for completing and submitting the RSA 7-OB Report online are provided upon completion of the registration process.
OIB grantees submitting the RSA 7-OB Report online are not required to mail signed copies of the 7-OB Report to RSA. Grantees must submit the 7-OB report in the MIS with an authorized signature and date. The signed lobbying certification form must be submitted by mail, fax, or electronically with the authorized signature and date.
The RSA 7-OB Report must be submitted to RSA no later than 90 days after the end of the reported Federal fiscal year (FFY) (i.e., December 31).
PART I: FUNDING SOURCES AND EXPENDITURES IN SUPPORT OF THE OIB PROGRAM
NOTE: References to Title VII below are to Title VII of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended by Title IV of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
Funding Sources and Amounts in Support of the OIB Program for the Reported Federal Fiscal Year (FFY)
- Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal grant award for reported FFY – Enter the total amount of your Title VII-Chapter 2 grant award for the reported FFY. Amount must agree with 10d of the Federal Financial Report form (SF-425).
- Title VII-Chapter 2 carryover from previous FFY – Enter the amount of Title VII-Chapter 2 grant funds carried over from the previous FFY. Enter zero, if none.
- TOTAL Title VII-Chapter 2 funds – The sum of A1 + A2. Total will be automatically populated.
- Title VII-Chapter 1, Part B funds – Enter the total amount of Federal Title VII-Chapter 1, Part B (State Independent Living Services) funds made available for support of the OIB program in the reported FFY.
- Other Federal funds available for expenditure in the reported FFY - Enter the total amount of any other Federal funds available for expenditure to support the OIB program for the reported FFY. Other Federal funds may include, but are not limited to, such funds as SSA reimbursement, Title XX Social Security Act funds, and Older Americans Act funds, including the carryover of such funds that are available for expenditure in the reported FFY.
- Total Federal funds - Sum of A3 + A4 + A5. Total will be automatically populated.
- State funds (excluding in-kind contributions) - Enter the total amount of State funds available for expenditure in the OIB program. Include funds from State appropriations as well as funds from other State sources that were available to support the OIB program for the reported FFY.
- In-kind contributions - Enter the total dollar amount of fairly evaluated and documented in-kind contributions from state, local, and public agencies, as well as non-profit and for-profit organizations. These can include but are not limited to services, materials, equipment, buildings, or office space that was utilized in support of the OIB program.
- Other non-Federal funds - Enter the total amount of funds from other non-Federal sources including local and community funding, non-profit or for-profit agency funding, voluntary client contributions, etc. Do not include in-kind contributions. State funds should be reported in A7 above.
- Total non-Federal funds - Sum of A7 + A9 above; do not include In- kind contributions reported in A8. Total will be automatically populated.
- Total of all funds available for expenditure in the reported FFY - Sum of A6 + A7 + A9. Do not include in-kind contributions reported in A8. Total will be automatically populated.
OIB Program Expenditures in Reported FFY
In this section, report allowable expenditures made in support of the OIB program in the reported FFY. For the purpose of this data collection, the term ”expenditures” means charges made by a non- Federal entity to the Federal OIB award (2 C.F.R. § 200.34).
In this data collection, expenditures are to be reported under two categories, (1) administrative costs, and (2) direct service costs. Within these categories, funds expended from the Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal OIB grant award and from non-Federal funds used to meet the match requirement in accordance with 34 C.F.R. § 367.31(b) and
§ 367.61 are reported separately from allowable OIB expenditures made from other Federal and non-Federal sources. However, OIB grantees remain responsible for tracking specific information related to the expenditure of OIB funds from each source. For example, specific information on expenditures made from the OIB Federal award and from non-Federal sources used in meeting the match requirement must be reported on the SF-425.
- Funds expended for administrative costs in the reported FFY - Enter the total amount of funds expended for administrative costs, including administrative support staff and general overhead costs, during the reported FFY. Do not include expenditures for direct services provided by agency staff or the expenditures of contract or sub-grantee staff that provide direct services under contracts or sub-grants. For example, if an administrator spends a portion of his or her time providing administrative services and the remainder providing direct services, include only the expenditures for administrative services.
- Administrative expenditures from (1) Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal grant award funds, including allowable carryover funds from the previous FFY and (2) non-Federal sources used in meeting the match requirement as reported on line 10j of the SF-425.
- Administrative expenditures from all other allowable sources as identified in Part I - A above.
- Total administrative expenditures - Sum of 1a + 1b. Total will be automatically populated.
- Funds expended for direct services during the reported FFY - Enter the total funds expended for direct program services during the reported FFY. Amount reported must equal the total funds expended for services in Part IV – F.
- Direct service expenditures from (1) Title VII-Chapter 2 OIB Federal grant award, including allowable carryover funds from the previous FFY and (2) non-Federal sources used in meeting the match requirement as reported on line 10j of the SF-425.
- Direct service expenditures from all other allowable sources as identified in Part I - A above.
- Total direct services expenditures - Sum of 2a + 2b. Total will be automatically populated.
- Total funds expended for the program during the reported FFY - Sum of B1c + B2c. Total will be automatically populated.
Part II: Program Staffing
Base all full-time equivalent (FTE) calculations on the number of hours per week considered full time for the position. Record all FTEs assigned to the OIB program during the reported FFY irrespective of whether salary is paid with Title VII-Chapter 2 funds. Report the number of hours per week that define FTE for State Agency staff and for Contract/Subgrant staff (e.g. 40 hours, 35 hours, etc.).
Full-time Equivalent (FTE) Program Staff
Record the FTE administrative and support staff and direct service staff, including State agency staff and contract/subgrant staff, for the OIB program. If a staff member provides both administrative and support functions and direct services, report the percentage of FTE devoted to administrative and support activities under “Administrative & Support” and the percentage of FTE devoted to direct services under “Direct Services.” For example, assuming a full-time 40 hour work week, if 20% (8 hours per week) of a staff person’s time was spent on administrative and support functions related to this program, and 80% (32 hours per week) of the staff person’s time was spent in providing direct services for this program, the reported FTE for that staff person would be 0.2 for administrative and support functions and 0.8 for direct services.
- FTE State Agency staff assigned to the OIB program
- Administrative and support – Under “Administrative & Support,” enter the FTE of all administrative and support staff (e.g., management, program directors, supervisors, readers, drivers for staff, etc.) assigned to the OIB program from the State agency.
- Direct service – Under “Direct Service”, enter the FTE of all State agency direct service staff (e.g., rehabilitation teachers, Independent Living (IL) specialists, orientation and mobility specialists, social workers, drivers for individuals receiving services, etc.) assigned to the OIB program from the State agency.
- Total – The total State agency FTE (A1C) is the sum of the “Administrative & Support” FTE (A1A) and “Direct Service” FTE (A1B). Total will be automatically populated.
- FTE through contract/subgrant – FTE assigned to the OIB program through a contract or subgrant.
- Administrative & support – Under “Administrative & Support” (A2a), enter the FTE of all administrative and support staff (e.g., management, program directors, supervisors, readers, drivers for staff, etc.) assigned to the OIB program through contract/subgrant.
Direct service – Under “Direct Service” (A2b), enter the FTE of all direct service staff (e.g., rehabilitation teachers, independent living specialists, orientation and mobility specialists, social
workers, drivers for individuals receiving services, etc.) assigned to the OIB program through contract/subgrant.
- Total – The Total Contract/subgrantee FTE (A2c) is the sum of the “Administrative & Support” FTE (A2a) and the “Direct Service” FTE (A2b). Total will be automatically populated.
- Total FTE – The system will generate the FTE totals for Administrative & Support and for Direct Service, as well as the total FTE for the program.
- FTE State Agency staff assigned to the OIB program
Employees with Disabilities
Record the number of employees with disabilities that are represented in the categories below. Individuals reported here should include both agency and contract/subgrant staff.
- Employees with disabilities other than with blindness or severe visual impairments – Enter the total number of employees with disabilities, excluding those with blindness or severe visual impairments. Employees with blindness or severe visual impairments are reported separately in B2 and B3 below.
Employees with blindness or severe visual impairments who are age
55 and older – Enter the total number who are blind or who have severe visual impairments and are age 55 and older.
- Employees with blindness or severe visual impairments who are under age 55 – Enter the total number who are blind or have a severe visual impairment and are under age 55.
Total employees with disabilities – Enter the number of employees reported in B1, B2, and B3. Total in B4 will be automatically populated.
Part III: Data on Individuals Served
Provide data in each of the categories below on the number of individuals for whom one or more services were provided (program participants) during the reported FFY.
Individuals Served
- Enter the number of program participants carried over from the previous FFY who received services in this reported FFY (i.e., an individual who received services in September (or any other month) of the previous FFY and continued to receive additional services in the reported FFY).
- Enter the number of program participants who began receiving services during the reported FFY irrespective of whether they have completed all services.
- Total individuals served during the reported FFY - Sum of A1 + A2. Total will be automatically populated.
Age at Application
Categories 1 through 4 - The total number of individuals served in each respective age category (B1 through B4).
- The sum of age categories B1 through B4. This total must agree with the total reported in A3. Total will be automatically populated.
Gender
- Self-identifies as female – Enter the total number of individuals receiving services who self-identify as female.
- Self-identifies as male – Enter the total number of individuals receiving services who self-identify as male.
- Did not self-identify gender – Enter the total number of Individuals receiving services who did not self-identify gender.
- Total – Sum of C1 + C2 + C3. This total must agree with the total reported in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.
Race
Categories 1 through 7 - Enter the number of individuals served in the reported FFY for each of the 7 race categories (D1 through D7). Self- identification is required to the greatest extent possible. It is generally expected that the information recorded will reflect the individual’s own identification of race from these categories.
Observer identification is not required. If the individual refuses to self-identify, record in item 6 (individual did not self-identify race). An individual should only be reported in one of the 7 categories. Item 7 should be used to report individuals served who identify two or more races. The multi-race category (item 7) should not be used to report an individual who identifies only 1 of the 5 races listed and also identifies that they are of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. Hispanic or Latino ethnicity is recorded in section E, regardless of race.
- American Indian – Enter the number of individuals served who are American Indian or Alaska Native. American Indian/Alaska Native means a person having origins in any of the original peoples of North and South America (including Central America), and who maintains tribal affiliation or community attachment.
Asian – Enter the number of individuals served who are Asian. Asian means a person having origins in any of the original peoples of the Far East, Southeast Asia, or the Indian subcontinent including, for
example, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippine Islands, Thailand, and Vietnam.
- Black or African American – Enter the number of individuals served who are Black or African American. Black or African American means a person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa.
- Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander – Enter the number of individuals served who are Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander. Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander means a person having origins in any of the original peoples of Hawaii, Guam, Samoa, or other Pacific Islands.
- White – Enter the number of individuals served who are White. White means a person having origins in any of the original peoples of Europe, the Middle East, or North Africa.
- Individual did not self-identify race – Enter the number of individuals served who did not self-identify race or refused to self- identify race.
- Two or more races – Enter the number of individuals served who report two or more races (for multi-race individuals).
- Total – Sum of items D1 through D7. This total must agree with the total reported in A3 above. Do not include the Ethnicity sum from E1. Total will be automatically populated.
Ethnicity
1. Enter the number of individuals served who reported that they are Hispanic or Latino. Hispanic or Latino means a person of Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican, South or Central American, or other Spanish culture or origin, regardless of race.
Degree of Visual Impairment
- Enter the number of individuals served who are totally blind (e.g., have light perception only or no light perception).
- Enter the number of individuals served who are considered legally blind, excluding those recorded in F1.
- Enter the number of individuals served who have severe visual impairment, excluding those recorded in F1 and F2.
- Total - Sum of F1 + F2 + F3. The total must agree with the total in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.
Major Cause of Visual Impairment
Enter only one major cause of visual impairment for each individual served during the reported FFY. Below are the most common causes of visual impairment among older individuals.
- Macular degeneration – Enter the number of individuals served who have macular degeneration as the major cause of visual impairment. Macular degeneration is a progressive disease of the retina wherein the light-sensing cells in the central area of vision (the macula) stop working and eventually die.
- Diabetic retinopathy – Enter the number of individuals served who have diabetic retinopathy as the major cause of visual impairment. Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the blood vessels of the light- sensitive tissue at the back of the eye (retina) caused by diabetes.
- Glaucoma – Enter the number of individuals served who have glaucoma as the major cause of visual impairment. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases causing optic nerve damage that involves mechanical compression or decreased blood flow.
- Cataracts – Enter the number of individuals served who have cataracts as the major cause of visual impairment. A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens of the eye resulting in blurred vision, sensitivity to light and glare, distortion, and dimming of colors.
- Other cause of visual impairment – Enter the number of individuals served whose major cause of visual impairment is not listed above.
- Total - Sum of G1 through G5. This total must agree with the total in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.
Other Age-Related Impairments
Older individuals who are blind may have one or more other age-related impairments or disorders that impact their ability to carry out customary daily life activities in the home and community. Listed below are age-related impairments (other than visual impairments) that are common among older individuals. Enter the total number of individuals served in each of the categories listed in H1 through H-6. Individuals may report one or more non-visual impairments/conditions.
- Hearing impairment – Hearing impairment occurs when there is a problem with or damage to one or more parts of the ear, and may be a conductive hearing loss (outer or middle ear) or a sensorineural hearing loss (inner ear) or a combination. Presbycusis is the gradual hearing loss that occurs with aging.
- Mobility impairment – Older individuals may have difficulty with gross motor behavior, such as moving around in the environment, or with fine motor skills, such as writing. Conditions such as Osteoporosis (loss of mass and quality of bones), osteoarthritis (inflammation and deterioration of joints), and sarcopenia (age- related loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength) may contribute to frailty and injury in older individuals. Other conditions that contribute to loss of mobility and independence include disorders in the central nervous system that control movement such as in Parkinson’s disease.
- Communication impairment – Older individuals may have impairments in expressive communication, receptive communication, or both, as a result of stroke, dementia, or other conditions.
- Cognitive or intellectual impairment – Cognitive impairments, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, impact parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and executive functioning. Individuals with intellectual disabilities (e.g., Down syndrome), should also be included in this category.
- Mental health impairment – Older individuals may have impairments or disorders that affect their mental health such as: Mood disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder); Sundown syndrome, which affects individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s; and psychosis or a personality disorder.
- Other impairment – Enter other impairments not captured in H1 – H5 above.
Type of Residence
- Private residence – Enter the number of individuals served who live in a private residence (house or apartment).
- Senior independent living facility – Enter the number of individuals served who live in senior independent living housing in which minimal support is provided.
- Assisted living facility – Enter the number of individuals served who live in assisted living facilities (e.g., housing that provides personal care and services which meet needs beyond basic provision of food, shelter and laundry).
- Nursing home/long-term care facility – Enter the number of individuals served who live in nursing homes/long-term care facilities (e.g., any facility that provides care to one or more persons who require nursing care and related medical services of such complexity to require professional nursing care under the direction of a physician on a 24 hour a day basis).
- Homeless – Enter the number of individuals served who are homeless.
- Total – Sum of I1 through I5. This total must agree with the total in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.
J. Source of Referral
- Eye care provider – Enter the number of individuals served referred by an eye care provider (e.g., ophthalmologist or optometrist).
- Physician/medical provider – Enter the number of individuals served referred by a medical provider other than an eye care provider.
- State VR agency – Enter the number of individuals served referred by a State vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency.
- Government/public or private social services agency – Enter the number of individuals served referred by a government/public or private social services agency, not listed elsewhere, that provides assistance to consumers related to eligibility and securing entitlements and benefits, counseling, elder law services, or assistance with housing.
- Veterans Administration – Enter the number of individuals served referred by the Veterans Administration.
- Senior program – Enter the number of individuals served referred by a senior program defined as a community-based educational recreational, or socialization program operated by a senior center, nutrition site, or senior club.
- Assisted living facility – Enter the number of individuals served referred by an assisted living facility defined as housing that provides personal care and services which meet needs beyond basic provision of food, shelter and laundry.
- Nursing home/long-term care facility – Enter the number of individuals served referred by a nursing home/long-term care facility defined as any facility that provides care to one or more persons who require nursing care and related medical services of such complexity to require professional nursing care under the direction of a physician on a 24 hour a day basis.
- Independent living center – Enter the number of individuals served referred by an independent living center (ILC) defined as a consumer- controlled, community-based, cross-disability, nonresidential private nonprofit agency that is designed and operated within a local community by individuals with disabilities, and provides an array of independent living services.
- Family member or friend – Enter the number of individuals referred by a family member or friend.
- Self-referral – Enter the number of individuals who were self- referred.
- All other sources – Enter the number of individuals referred from All other sources aside from those listed above, including Faith based organizations.
- Total – The sum of J1 through J12. This total must agree with the total in A3 above. Total will be automatically populated.
Part IV: Types of Services Provided and Funds Expended
Provide data related to the number of program participants receiving each type of service and funds expended for each type of service.
Total expenditures for direct program services in Part I - B2 must equal the total funds spent on services in Part IV - F. In other words, the amount reported in Part I - B2 must equal the sum of the expenditures reported in Part IV - F. Salary or expenditures associated with direct service staff or contractors providing direct services should be included in the expenditure of services provided in A1, B1, C1, D1 and E1.
Clinical/Functional Vision Assessments and Services
- Total expenditures from all sources of program funding - Enter the total expenditures, including expenditures from Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal grant funds and all other sources of program funding, for clinical and/or functional vision assessments and services, whether purchased or provided directly.
- Persons served – Vision Screening/Vision Examination/Low Vision Evaluation (unduplicated count): Enter the total number of individuals who received clinical vision screening or vision examinations from qualified or certified professionals such as ophthalmologists, optometrists, or low vision specialists (i.e., one individual may receive multiple services during the reported FFY but should only be counted one time). Assessment areas may include functional visual acuity and fields, efficiency of vision in the performance of everyday tasks, and evaluation for low vision aids or equipment. Functional vision assessments are typically provided by professionals who are certified or have a master’s degree in low vision rehabilitation. Do not include evaluations for orientation and mobility, which should be included in IV - C3.
- Persons served – Surgical or therapeutic treatments to prevent, correct, or modify disabling eye conditions (unduplicated count): Enter the total number of individuals who received surgical or therapeutic treatment to prevent, correct, or modify disabling eye conditions, including prescription optical devices(i.e., one individual may receive multiple services during the reported FFY but should only be counted one time). Nonprescription optical aids and devices should be reported in IV - B2.
Assistive Technology devices and services
As defined in Section 3(4) of the Assistive Technology Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 108-364), “assistive technology device means any item, piece of equipment, or product system whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.” Assistive
technology devices may include such items as canes, slates, insulin gauges, closed circuit televisions, computers, adaptive software, magnifiers, adaptive cooking items, adaptive recreational items, handwriting guides, braille devices, large button telephones, etc. Assistive technology services may include the evaluation of assistive technology needs of an individual, services related to acquisition of technology, loan programs, maintenance and repair of assistive technology, training or technical assistance for the individual or professionals related to the use of assistive technology, programs to expand the availability of assistive technology, low vision services related to the use of optical aids and devices, and other services related to the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.
- Total expenditures from all sources of program funding – Enter the total amount of expenditures, including expenditures from Title VII- Chapter 2 Federal grant funds and all other sources of program funds, for the provision of assistive technology devices and services.
- Persons served – Provision of assistive technology devices and/or services (unduplicated count): Enter the unduplicated count of individuals who received one or more assistive technology devices and services (i.e., one individual may receive multiple assistive technology devices and services during the reported FFY but should only be counted one time).
Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services
- Total expenditures from all sources of program funding - Enter the total expenditures, including expenditures from Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal grant funds and all other sources of program funding, for the provision of services and adjustment training leading to independent living. Evaluation and assessment services (excluding those included in IV - A2 or IV - B2) leading to the planning and implementation of services and training should be included in these costs.
- Persons served – Independent living and adjustment training services (unduplicated count): Enter the unduplicated count of individuals who received one or more independent living and adjustment training services (i.e., one individual may receive multiple independent living and adjustment training services during the reported FFY but should only be counted one time).
- Number of persons reported in IV - C2 who received the following services:
- Persons served – Orientation and mobility training: Enter the total number of individuals who received orientation and mobility (O & M) services or travel training (i.e., learning to access public or private transportation and to travel safely and as independently as possible in the home and community with or without the use of mobility aids and devices).
- Persons served – Communication skills training: Enter the total number of individuals who received communication skills training. This category includes, for example, training in reading and writing braille; training in the use of the telephone (including mobile phones); training in the use of readers, newspaper reading services, radio and talking book services; and training in other communication skills and technologies. This category also includes training in keyboarding and computer literacy. Training in the use of specialized computer software (e.g., screen reading software) and adaptive equipment should be reported under assistive technology services (IV - B2 above).
- Persons served – Daily living skills training: Enter the total number of individuals who received daily living skills training. This category includes, for example, training in the use of blindness and low vision alternative techniques for telling time, food preparation, grooming and dress, household chores, medical management, shopping, and recreational activities.
- Persons served – Advocacy training: Enter the total number of individuals who participated in advocacy training including consumer organization meetings.
- Persons served – Adjustment counseling and/or peer support services: Enter the total number of individuals who received adjustment counseling and/or peer support services (individual or group) to assist them in adjusting to visual impairment and blindness.
- Persons served – Information and referral services: Enter the total number of individuals (program participants) who received information and referral to other service providers, programs, and agencies (e.g., senior programs, public and private social service programs, faith-based organizations, consumer groups, etc.) to enhance adjustment, independent living, and integration into the community. Do not include individuals who received only information and referral and for whom no other services were provided (e.g., non-participants, the general public, and other service providers).
- Persons served – Other independent living services: Enter the total number of individuals who received any other independent living service not listed above.
Supportive Services
Supportive services are services provided to individuals with disabilities so that they can access other program services. Under
this category, report the number of individuals who received reader services, transportation, personal attendant services, interpreters, or other support services while actively participating in the program or attaining independent living goals.
- Expenditures – Enter the total expenditures, including expenditures from Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal grant funds and all other sources of program funding, for the provision of supportive services.
- Persons served – supportive services (unduplicated count): Enter the unduplicated count of individuals who received supportive services as described above (i.e., one individual may receive multiple supportive services during the reported FFY but should only be counted one time).
Community Awareness Activities and Information and Referral
- Expenditures – Enter the total expenditures, including expenditures from Title VII-Chapter 2 Federal grant funds and all other sources of program funding, used to support community awareness activities/events and providing information and referral services to individuals for whom this was the only service provided (e.g., health fair for seniors, training for other professionals, telephone inquiries, and general inquiries about services for older individuals who are blind).
TOTAL DIRECT EXPENDITURES
Sum of A1 through E1. The total must agree with the direct service expenditures reported in Part 1 - B2c.
Part V: Program Performance Measures and Outcome Data
The revised GPRA measures for the OIB program are listed below. Grantees must report the data necessary to calculate program performance on these measures as outlined in the instructions below following the list of measures.
Program Measures
Objective: To restore, improve, or maintain the independence of older individuals whose functional capabilities have been lost or diminished as a result of vision loss or blindness.
Assistive Technology Devices and Services
Measure A – The percentage of individuals receiving assistive technology devices and services who demonstrated improvement in one or more functional capabilities during the reported FFY consistent with the objectives for receiving such devices and services.
Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services
Measure B - The percentage of individuals receiving one or more independent living and adjustment training services who demonstrated improvement in functional capabilities during the reported FFY.
Independence in the Home and Community
Measure C1 – The percentage of individuals completing a plan of services who reported feeling more confident in their ability to maintain their current living situation.
Measure C2 - The percentage of individuals completing a plan of services who reported an increased ability to engage in their customary daily life activities in the home and community.
- Efficiency Measure – (Measure will be calculated by RSA using MIS data reported in PARTS I and III)
Objective: To provide cost effective supports and services to increase the independence of older individuals who are blind so that they may remain in the community and to prevent or delay the need for an increasing level of care, particularly for those individuals who are at risk of entering institutions.
Measure D – The average annual cost per individual served through the program during the reported FFY.
Instructions for Reporting of Performance Data in Part V:
For measures A, Assistive Technology Devices and Services, and B, Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services, data is reported for individuals whose change in functional capabilities was assessed during the reported FFY, following the receipt of one or more services provided through the program.
For measures under C, Independence in the Home and Community, data is reported for individuals completing a plan of services during the reported FFY. For the purpose of this measure, “a plan of services is a set of services provided through the OIB program designed to meet an individual’s goals.” For the purpose of the items reported under C, an individual who has completed his or her plan of services does not need to have formally exited the program.
Grantees are not required to report data for efficiency measure D in Part V. The average annual cost per individual served through the program during the reported FFY will be calculated by RSA based on data reported in Part I, B3 and Part III, A3.
Assistive Technology Devices and Services
From the unduplicated number of persons served that received assistive technology devices and services reported in IV - B2, enter the number of unduplicated individuals receiving assistive technology
devices and services for whom change in functional capabilities was assessed, during the reported FFY (Denominator).
- From the unduplicated number of persons reported in A1 above, enter the unduplicated number of individuals receiving assistive technology devices and services who demonstrated improvement in one or more functional capabilities, during the reported FFY. Note: An individual who maintained but did not improve their capabilities may be reported here if the individual’s goal was to prevent further decline in their capabilities (Numerator).
- The percentage of individuals receiving assistive technology devices and services who demonstrated improvement in one or more functional capabilities during the reported FFY consistent with the objectives for receiving such devices and services. (A2 divided by A1 X 100). The percentage is calculated by RSA MIS.
Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services
- From the unduplicated number of individuals receiving independent living and adjustment training services reported in IV C2, during the reported FFY, enter the unduplicated number of individuals receiving independent living and adjustment training services for whom change in functional capabilities was assessed during the reported FFY (Denominator).
- From the unduplicated number of persons reported in B1 above, enter the unduplicated number of individuals receiving independent living and adjustment training services who demonstrated improvement in one or more functional capabilities. Note: An individual who maintained but did not improve their capabilities may be reported here if the individual’s goal was to prevent further decline in their capabilities (Numerator).
- The percentage of individuals receiving one or more independent living and adjustment training services who demonstrated improvement in functional capabilities during the reported FFY (B2 divided by B1 X 100). The percentage is calculated by RSA MIS.
Independence in the Home and Community
Responses to items C1 through C5 below are based on individuals who completed their plan of services during the reported FFY. Note: For the purpose of these measures, an individual who has completed his or her plan of services does not need to have formally exited the program. For example, an individual who has completed individualized services but continues to participate in ongoing peer support activities provided through the program would be included.
- Total: Enter the total number of individuals completing a plan of services during the reported FFY (Denominator). Note: This means a specific set of services designed for the individual to meet his or her goals.
- Engage in customary daily life activities: Enter the number of individuals completing a plan of services during the reported FFY who reported an increased ability to engage in their customary daily life activities in the home and community (Numerator).
- The percentage of individuals completing a plan of services who reported an increased ability to engage in their customary daily life activities in the home and community. (C2 divided by C1 X 100). The percentage is calculated by RSA MIS.
- Maintain Living Situation – Enter the number of individuals completing a plan of services during the reported FFY who reported feeling that they are more confident in their ability to maintain their current living situation (Numerator).
- The percentage of individuals completing a plan of services who reported feeling that they are more confident in their ability to maintain their current living situation (C4 divided by C1 X 100). The percentage is calculated by RSA MIS.
- Efficiency Measure – (To be calculated by RSA MIS from data reported in PARTS I and III)
- Total funds expended for direct services provided during the reported FFY (as reported in I B2c)
- Number of individuals receiving services during the reported FFY (as reported in III A3)
- The average annual cost per individual served through the program during the reported period (D1 divided by D2).
Part VI: Training and Technical Assistance
On July 22, 2014, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) was enacted and included a new requirement under Section 751A that the RSA Commissioner shall conduct a survey of designated State agencies that receive grants under section 752 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by Title IV of WIOA, regarding training and technical assistance needs in order to determine funding priorities for such training and technical assistance. Enter a brief description of your training and technical assistance needs related to the implementation and improvement of the performance of your OIB program (for example, financial management, reporting requirements on the 7-OB, program management, data analysis and program performance, law and applicable regulations, provision of services and service delivery, promising practices, resources and information, outreach, etc.).
Part VII: Narrative
See descriptions of items to be included in the narrative on the 7-OB form.
Part VIII: Signature Instructions
SIGN AND PRINT THE NAME, TITLE AND TELEPHONE NUMBER OF THE OIB PROGRAM DIRECTOR.
The certifying official (either the Program Director or a designated officer) must have the legal authority to submit the form on behalf of the agency.
Part I: Funding Sources and Expenditures in Support of the OIB Program
Part II: Program Staffing
Part III: Data on Individuals Served
Part IV: Types of Services Provided and Funds Expended
Part V: Program Performance Measures and Outcome Data
Program Measures
Objective: To restore, improve, or maintain the independence of older individuals whose functional capabilities have been lost or diminished as a result of vision loss or blindness.Measure: The average annual cost per individual served through the program during the reported FFY.
Program Performance Data
Part VI: Training and Technical Assistance Needs
Part VII: Narrative
CBVI also works with external vendors for the purchase of aids and devices, as well as services not provided by agency staff but are required to assist the consumer achieve his or her highest levels of independence and community integration.
The agency’s eye screening unit, Project BEST (Better Eye Services and Treatment) conducts and sponsors a variety of education programs and eye screenings in many of the underserved areas, reaching out to socially and economically disadvantaged areas, and senior citizens, particularly in urban settings. Staff has been working with local health clinics, adult activity centers, nursing homes, ethnic community centers and health fairs to provide information and training to their participants/residents.
In FFY 2025, 24,588 individuals screened statewide and 684 screening events were conducted, statewide. As a result of the screenings, 2,280 individuals were referred to physicians for further evaluation, 1,196 individuals were referred to other supportive services and 114 individuals were referred to CBVI programs for ongoing support.
CBVI continues to support the Library Equal Access Program (LEAP). CBVI has partnered with several public Libraries along with the New Jersey Talking Book and Braille Center to provide training on using computers and iPads with assistive technology software. The effective use of a computer or other digital device has proven to be a core necessary skill of independence with individuals with no or limited vision.
The Senior Hands-on Retreat Experience (SHORE) program is a unique mini adjustment training program held yearly at a location near the Jersey Shore. Twelve consumers and ten companions participated in the program this year consisting of various trainings and presentations including adjustment to vision loss, service animals, communications and technology instruction, orientation and mobility and emergency preparedness. The group took a trip to Smithville Village to practice safe and independent traveling skills while visiting shops and sights throughout. At the conclusion of the program, participants and companions expressed how much they learned throughout the week and how much of an impact the program had on their independence and mental health. Being around others in a similar situation made the consumers realize they were not alone. This group plans to remain in touch and provide support to each other through their vision loss journeys.
Now in its second year, the Fellowship Program is a mentorship program designed to address the needs of individuals with vision loss residing in New Jersey. It is a collaboration between CBVI and a community agency or organization serving as a program facilitator. Individuals are identified and referred to the program by CBVI VRCs (Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors) and must be active consumers who are also receiving services from the agency.
The program's goal is to create a sense of community and mutual mentorship by building meaningful connections between college students 18-21 years of age and individuals 54 and older (ILOB—Independent Living Older Blind) who are experiencing vision loss. Objectives foster mutual respect, independence, resilience, and advocacy through educational and skills-based activities.
T.G. 91-year-old ILOB female client diagnosed with Wet Macular Degeneration and Glaucoma. She complained of inability to read her mails, medications, recipes, and sign checks. Client had glasses and magnifiers, which she stated as no longer working for her. During assessment, nurse observed client’s difficulty in reading prints and documents with her glasses and magnifiers. Assessment indicated client would benefit from a CCTV. After explaining the loaner policy, nurse applied for a CCTV for client.
Client described the CCTV as “life-changing.” She stated, “I do not just like, it, I love it.” She successfully demonstrated her ability to read mails, labels, and food recipes, and also sign her checks. Client’s ability to perform those activities promoted her sense of independence. Client was granted ownership of the CCTV. She expressed appreciation for and satisfaction with services received.
Findings from analyses of 70 completed surveys indicate that 91% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that services were provided in a timely manner; 94% agreed or strongly agreed that staff were attentive to their needs; and 95% agreed or strongly agreed that staff were familiar with aids and techniques used by individuals with vision impairments. Overall satisfaction with services was reported by 89% of respondents. The majority of respondents (86%) lived in private homes or residences. When asked to rate the importance of the Commission’s services to help consumers remain independent in their home, 80% rated services as somewhat important or very important.
Respondents were asked to rate their agreement about positive outcomes for each service area and for overall services.
- Daily living activities, out of the 49 consumers who reported receiving instruction on activities around their home, 86% agreed or strongly agreed that they were better able to complete daily living tasks.
- Orientation and mobility, out of the 35 consumers who reported they received this service, 71% agreed or strongly agreed that they were more confident moving around their community.
- Eye health, out of the 24 consumers who said they received services from an eye health nurse, 92% agreed or strongly agreed that they felt more confident about managing their health.
- Assistive technology, out of the 30 consumers who said they received instruction to use cell phones or computers, 73% agreed or strongly agreed that they were able to complete tasks using technology.
- Low Vision Exam, out of the 44 consumers who reported they had a low vision exam, 95% agreed or strongly agreed that they were better informed about their vision loss and how to use their low vision.
- Seventy-eight percent of 59 consumers agreed or strongly agreed that they had an increased ability to engage in customary daily life activities in their home and community.
These results demonstrate the impact of services and the substantial benefits consumers received from participating in the services provided by the New Jersey Commission for the Blind. A copy of the complete program evaluation report conducted by Mississippi State University’s National Research and Training Center will be available in 2026.
Consumer EM, 90s, started losing her vision in recent years. When I started working with her, the client was emotionally struggling believing that life was over without her sight. Over time, I worked with her to learn enough Braille to enable her to play UNO and introduced her to tactile dominos so that the client could participate independently in family game night. This gave the client confidence to try to learn other things to keep her mind at work. One of the things this client wished to try to learn was how to play a three stringed instrument called Balaika. However, the client hasn’t been able to find a teacher. I have used my knowledge of playing the Ukulele to create tactile cord sheets for the client so she can feel where finger placement should be for each note.
An 81-year-old consumer who spent her life just a block from the beach and loved jumping into the ocean became hesitant—declining trips to friends and avoiding the shoreline when her vision started to decline. She previously traveled extensively for work and pleasure. She tried O&M lessons early on but put her cane aside, relying on her remaining vision. As her sight continued to worsen over the years, she finally embraced the cane. Within just a few months of focused mobility training, her confidence soared. She traveled solo on two flights and, one hot day, asked for a lesson to re-learn how to enter and exit the ocean surf. Her instructor gladly adapted the training to the beach: avoiding holes in the sand, detecting the shoreline’s transition from dry to wet, and safely navigating the surf line. That day, she plunged into the waves she’d loved since childhood—and found her joy, independence, and connection with the beach restored. This story illustrates that O&M isn’t just about walking around the block or climbing stairs—it’s a comprehensive field that equips individuals with the tools they need to fully enjoy life.
RL, a 62-year-old man who recently experienced vision loss. He has always been an avid reader, and specially a writer, whose profound spoken word poems and literature brightened his day. As his vision deteriorated, his peripheral vision seemed to be his best choice at being able to read back what he wrote, but with great difficulty. However, with the assistance from RT, he is now writing as he once did, AND reading back what he wrote. The training required to pull off this feat required writing testing, pinpointing difficulties, utilizing signature guides, and correcting his spacing. Using smartphone assistive apps, he Is now able to have his phone read back wheat he wrote, and that was an amazing advance in his case because he cannot read back what he writes and that was making him feel down. Using RT’s adaptive instructions, he is now writing like normal, and even wrote his wife a beautiful letter, which was not only very legible, but a well-crafted lovely sentiment.
YY, age 61, is not only experiencing vision loss, but also potential memory loss. He has a very supportive family, who have been helping him with many tasks. When first working with RT, it was evident that he had memory loss because he would repeat the exact same phrase, verbatim, that he had said 2-3 minutes ago. RT had to find ways to teach him to retain information, reduce training that required memory retention, and make sure he felt optimistic every visit, as he was usually feeling rather sad. The training for using his smartphone was repeated enough times that he was eventually able to integrate that into his muscle memory, which took months, but was successful. With enough training he was able to read printed materials & made it even easier once he got Meta Glasses. RT had persisted, each visit, with integrating him into the blind community so that he feels like he is not alone in his vision loss. RT insisted on ASPIRE groups, VLANJ support groups, and Achilles International to get outside more. Big progress was made when client’s daughter started noticing the constant visits to his father, and she decided to join in to see what the visits were about. RT spoke to consumer’s daughter about the program offered by VLANJ. Consumer agreed to attend and loved it there. He feels much more supported, and is attending all VLANJ events both virtual and in person, and he thanks RT for never giving up on him. He is no longer afraid to venture outside and learn new things every day.
Consumer PR has been receiving financial assistance for restorative eye health services as well as diabetic teaching. Client is now able to monitor blood glucose independently and maintain good blood sugar control and medication management. Vision has improved since treatment began. Client reports AM glucose reading ranging 92-115mm/dL. PR continues to monitor weight with talking scales as she is prone to accumulation of fluids.
JP, 89 years old, was experiencing frustration due to increased difficulty in getting around with Macular Degeneration. He reached out to CBVI for assistance with mobility and other areas, which helped him, regain his independence. He learned to use a cane to walk around his block for exercise and to independently enter a local deli for routine transactions, which boosted his confidence. He received a loaner CCTV from TBBC and was able to read a book, something he had not done in over 2 years. He is independent in reading his mail and additional literature for recreational purposes. He informs that he is grateful for the instruction and help he has received from CBVI.
Client EL, age 67, began receiving mobility instruction in 2024. She had some cane experience and was familiar with basic technique but was looking to venture further out into the community. EL has been dedicated to overcoming her fear and hesitancy when traveling alone; wanting experiences with Uber and Ocean Ride, and had a goal of traveling to Shop Rite independently using her living community’s private transportation. One year later, EL has done just that – she successfully scheduled her ride, made it to Shop Rite, purchased what she needed, and returned home! EL demonstrated soliciting assistance and self-advocacy skills, including using low-vision devices and applications on her iPhone.
The CBVI Community Connection Call(CCC), first launched in mid-December 2020. It is designed as a strategic platform to foster connection, disseminate valuable resources, engage with consumers, agency staff, service providers, and community partners. Each session is carefully curated and delivered by the Community Outreach and Education Unit to highlight CBVI programs, present success stories from current and former consumers, and feature presentations by professional staff. As of September 2025, The Community Connection Call is being held monthly, previously a quarterly schedule.
It is estimated that CBVI has reached approximately 10,000 community members statewide through attendance at outreach events both in-person and virtual. We have also shared community resources widely through the community connection calls where we have reached an estimated additional 400-600 individuals.
These trainings have eased anxieties staff previously held about their skills in working with someone who has a dual sensory loss. Staff are more comfortable and are prepared with the resources they need to help connect consumers with community partners and programs.
Staff were strongly encouraged to take part each month in the OIB-TAC monthly webinars to build upon their knowledge and skills in the specific topic areas. ACVREP staff were encouraged to taje part in all opportunities to each credits toward re-certification.
Certification
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless such collection displays a valid OMB control number. Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 6 hours per response, including time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. The obligation to respond to this collection is required to obtain or retain a benefit (Section 13 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended). Send comments regarding the burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, toU.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20202-4537or email ICDocketMgr@ed.gov and reference the OMB Control Number 1820-0608. Note: Please do not return the completed form to this address.