VNA News and Resource Center - VNA News

October 31, 2011 | Lynn Grayson

TAGS: Vision Program

Two Occupational Therapists Hired for VNA’s New Low Vision Works Program

Occupational Therapists Debbie Gauvain and Linda Miller recently joined VNA, Western Pennsylvania to manage the Low Vision Works program that specializes in visual retaining. The two occupational therapists traveled to Sarasota, Florida in August for the specialized training in low vision rehabilitation. They are working toward their national certification in the program.

Gauvain has been an occupation therapist for over 20 years working in home health, hospital, long term and psychiatric rehabilitation settings. This is the first time she has focused on low vision therapy exclusively. Gauvin received her bachelor’s degree from Towson University in Baltimore.

Miller, also an occupational therapist for more than 20 years, attended Slippery Rock University where she received a bachelor’s degree in biology and later, the University of Pittsburgh for a bachelor of science in occupational therapy.

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While in Sarasota, the two therapists received certification from Low Vision Works, but will need additional hours and classes to receive national certification.??

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Visual retaining teaches the patient to use the parts of the eye that have not been damaged by Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) to increase visual acuity, reading speed and accuracy and overall independence. The VNA combines the visual retaining program administered by Gauvain and Miller with "home modification," which is a process that adapts the home environment to better serve those with low vision.

Low Vision Works by VNA is appropriate for seniors with AMD, Diabetic Retinopathy and Glaucoma. The eight week program is available in the home and completely reimbursed for qualified Medicare recipients. For more information about the program call the VNA Customer Call Center at 877-862-6659 or go to

www.vna.com

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About VNA of Western Pennsylvania
VNA of Western Pennsylvania was founded in 1965 as a volunteer, community-based nonprofit home health care organization. Dedicated to providing care to patients of all ages regardless of their ability to pay, VNA services include nursing, personal care aides, private duty, hospice, medical equipment, remote health monitoring, emergency response system, health screening and wellness promotion. VNA is Medicare certified and accredited by The Joint Commission.

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