Presentation of a Training Computer to Vision Australia
Cost $2,000
At a thank you Dinner held at the Rules Club on 17 November 2011 for all those that made the Looking Ahead Activity Day so successful, the Rotary Club presented to Vision Australia a training Computer valued at $2,000. People who are blind or have low vision in the Riverina region are able to access services for support in maintaining their independence and quality of life, through Vision Australia’s Wagga office. Located in Trail St. Wagga, services cover many area of daily living such as vision assessment, reading, cooking, using appliances such as the telephone and telling the time.
Services offering advice and training in using computer-based adaptive technology previously needed to be accessed on an out-reach basis from Melbourne, Sydney or Canberra. Geographical distances and client demand resulted in long waiting periods.
The provision of a computer with a large screen monitor and loaded with adaptive software programmes will enable clients to be shown the advantages of such technology and be able to receive training in how to use them within Wagga. This computer will be available for clients to book to continue practising with support of a trained volunteer mentor between visits by the Adaptive Technology Trainer.
People who are blind or have low vision can now become familiar with the adaptive technology and be able to make fully informed decisions about what they purchase. They will be able to book a time with a mentor to help with their mastery of the software programmes. This would apply to clients of all ages, including children needing help with using a computer at school, students at TAFE or university, people using a computer in the workplace and adults using a computer at home for recreation and communication.
