Through A New Outlook - Guide Dogs NSW/ACT

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT has
developed a specialised program
for people whose vision has been
affected by conditions such as
stroke, tumour or brain injury.
It’s important to note that while anyone is
able to refer themselves, referring others
will require consent from the individual.
A medical referral is not required.
Contact your local office to arrange an
initial visit.
Want To Find Out More?
For more information, contact your local
Guide Dog NSW/ACT Office:
Albury 6041 5201
Chatswood 9412 9300
Coffs Harbour 6652 7424
Deakin (ACT) 6285 2988
Lismore 6621 8475
Newcastle 4925 3066
Orange 6362 6625
Tamworth 6761 3152
Wagga Wagga 6925 3559
Westmead 9891 4914
Wollongong 4225 9247
A new outlook
www.guidedogs.com.au
All Guide Dogs NSW/ACT services
and equipment are provided locally
and free of charge.
GDN0010 - 2 28/07/2011

Training ranges from walking
safely around the home through
to using public transport
and travelling in a busy city
environment. Support is provided
until the person feels confident.
Many people who have vision impairment as
a result of a brain injury find their eyes may
still function well but the messages being
transmitted to the brain can be misinterpreted.
One of the most common forms of
neurological vision impairment is
Homonymous Hemianopia. Surprisingly,
those affected often may not realise their sight
is compromised.
Warning signs can include:
• Being confused and easily disorientated,
even in familiar places.
• Having difficulties when reading.
• Being overwhelmed or anxious in crowded
or busy places or bumping into people
or things.
• Crossing roads unsafely.
• Lacking confidence when using
public transport.
• Experiencing double or blurry vision.
How can we help?
While individual requirements may vary, our
programs teach people how to compensate
for their vision loss and restore their confidence.
Part of this training includes scanning strategies
or, if required, a mobility aid.
Things you should know:
• Training programs are designed according
to individual needs.
• Early referral is recommended to help
develop safe and consistent scanning.
• Education, support and training are provided
for the person, family and carers regarding
the nature of this type of vision loss.
• We will visit the person wherever they are.
This may be in a rehabilitation ward or
at home.
• Training ranges from walking safely
around the home through to using
public transport and travelling in a busy
city environment.
• Support is provided until the person
feels confident.
• Follow-up visits are offered to ensure
compensatory scanning strategies are
effective and safe.
• We work with other rehabilitation
professionals particularly when cognitive,
physical and/or behavioural challenges
are present.