Kentucky Program Information

What are the eligibility requirements?

• The individual has a diagnosis of a significant visual impediment which results in a corrected visual acuity of 20/60 or less in the better eye or a visual field of no more than 60 degrees in the better eye; or a progressive visual disability which will result in at least a significant visual impediment.
• Which alone, or in combination with one or more other impediments, significantly limits the ability of the individual to function independently within the home, community, or the ability of the individual to obtain, maintain, or advance in employment.
• For whom the delivery of independent living services will improve the ability of the individual to function more independently within the home, community, or employment.

What is the process for applying for services?

The most important step is to make contact to let one of our staff know of the interest in independent living services. An office assistant or Independent Living Counselor will discuss the program and walk the interested person through the referral and application process. Our staff will guide the process, making it easy for the referral source and the person interested in receiving services.

What documentation is required?

We request a copy of the latest eye exam report. In circumstances when there is no report or the report cannot be obtained, our counselors conduct functional assessments which are basis for eligibility determination.

What services are available?

• Independent Living and Adjustment Training Services, including:
  • Daily Living Skills Training
  • Communication Skills Training
  • Advocacy Skills Training
  • Orientation and Mobility Skills Training
• Information and Referral to other blindness/low-vision resources such as the McDowell Rehabilitation Center and the Kentucky Talking Book Library.
• Assistance accessing and instruction in the use of assistive technology devices utilized in the Independent Living Plan of Services.

Additional service information:

• Services are available in all 120 Kentucky Counties
• IL/OIB counselors usually meet individuals in their homes; however, if an individual prefers, meetings can be arranged in Office of Vocational Rehabilitation offices, community locations such as public libraries, or at most places convenient for the individual.
• IL/OIB direct services are free to the individual.
• Independent Living Plans of Service are customized for each person. 

Program Contact Information: 

• Connection to the Kentucky IL/OIB program can be made through any office of the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation. Contacts can be by telephone, email, office visit, and/or US mail. All calls can be made to 502-429-4460 or 502-764-2465 and will be directed appropriately.  
• Kentucky IL/OB Program Website

• Program Manager: Gay Pannell, IL/OIB Branch Manager 

  Kentucky OVR-Division of Blind Services-IL/OIB Branch 955 Fairview Ave, Bowling Green, KY 42101 Direct Telephone Line: 502-764-1106

   

Kentucky Program Brochure

Program Participant Testimonials

"It is so easy to take the small things for granted like being able to tell the time, so it was a humbling experience when my eyes got worse. I am thankful that programs like this exist.  It has helped me restore my independence." 

"The resources provided helped me feel normal again! Being able to safely cook and pour my own cup of coffee has been one of the best parts of all of this."

"I’ve participated in the program before, and each time has been super helpful. It’s nice knowing that there will be resources for me if my vision continues to decline. I’m glad this isn’t a one time, and you are done process."

"I remember always feeling sorry for myself at the beginning of this program. Now I embrace my vision loss and enjoy life the best way that I can. This program changed my perspective on so many things."

Independent Living and Older Individuals who are Blind (IL/OIB) Services Video