Nationally renowned nonprofit Braille Institute will soon have a new presence in the Coachella Valley, featuring its recently launched initiative, called Vision Support America, which assists older adults whose vision is changing. Having served the greater Palm Springs area for over 50 years, Braille Institute will help many more people experiencing changes to their vision through their new state-of-the-art facility in Rancho Mirage. “The need for low vision services in the Coachella Valley has never been greater,” says Braille Institute CEO Dimitri Kales. “As retirees continue to move to this beautiful region, many more residents will need help for vision problems associated with aging. Vision Support America and Braille Institute will be there for them with our free services.” Help for Those Experiencing Vision Changes The center will be a hub for Braille Institute’s low vision services, which were rebranded earlier this year into Vision Support America (VSA). This new initiative builds on the Braille Institute mission by reaching more people earlier in their journeys with vision changes. VSA provides support for those with macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts, among other issues impacting vision. Resources that Transform Lives The 5,200-square-foot facility, located at 42525 Rancho Mirage Lane, will feature a host of new resources, including a Discovery Lab, where expert staff will train clients on the latest access technologies, including smartphone apps, digital magnifiers, and other tools that support independent living. It will also include a teaching kitchen, low vision assessment space, and a sensory rich Inspiration Garden. “Vision changes exist on a spectrum, and far more people are affected than many realize,” Kales says. “Our new Coachella Valley Center represents our commitment to meeting people where they are — whether they are coping with the first signs of macular degeneration or navigating more advanced vision issues. Our goal is to help every individual retain independence, confidence, and connection to daily life.” Read more about the center at brailleinstitute.org/ locations/coachella-valley. For more information, call Jacqueline Salazar, Coachella Valley Center Relations, at 1-760-202-6109 or jgsalazar@brailleinstitute.org. Braille Institute Opening New Rancho Mirage Center Featuring Vision Support America A Bold New Vision
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