This service, which benefits blind, deaf/blind and visually impaired North Carolina residents, assesses functional abilities and limitations, interests and service needs of the individual seeking services.
This includes evaluating the support system of the person, access to other services and resources in the community, and reviewing medical reports and other factors that may affect independent living rehabilitation needs. Basic information requested to complete an assessment includes:
-A copy of a recent eye exam report
-Medical reports may also be requested if the individual has functional limitations and restrictions due to medical conditions and/or secondary disabilities
-Background information from individuals, family members, care providers and other service providers
This information is used to conduct a comprehensive assessment of individuals' functional abilities, limitations, service needs, support systems, interests, access to other services and resources in the community and factors that may affect their ability to live and function independently in their home, community and employment. Services are delivered by independent living rehabilitation counselors. Independent living rehabilitation counselors meet with individuals referred for independent living rehabilitation services to share information about services and to gather information to help determine individuals' eligibility for services and independent living needs.
Individuals who live inNorth Carolinaand have significant vision loss can access services by contacting one of the seven district offices of the Division of Services for the Blind. This service is available statewide.