Orientation and Mobility

The goal of the Orientation and Mobility Instructor is to bring the individual back to the independent travel, one had before vision loss, or to provide the more experienced traveler with orientation to a new environment. Orientation is the ability to understand where one is located in space and Mobility is being able to travel thorough that space safely. The Orientation and Mobility Department provides individualized training programs within the home, neighborhood, workplace and community. Instruction begins with an assessment of the individual's needs, motivation, and visual and physical abilities and limitations, and may include the use of low vision aids and long cane training.

Techniques Taught Are

• Effective use of sighted guide

• Indoor travel skills

• Effective street crossings

• The safe use of public transportation

All Orientation and Mobility Specialists are able to assist with a guide dog school application and orientation training follow-up, if needed. Most guide dog schools do require mobility and orientation training before training with a guide dog commences.

• Contact the Mobility Unit

Laws

• Massachusetts "White Cane Law", MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL LAWS CHAPTER 90 SECTION 14 A

Guide Dog Schools

• The Seeing Eye Inc.

• Guiding Eyes for the Blind

• Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind Inc.

• Leader Dogs for the Blind

• Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc.

• Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation

• Guide Dog Users Inc.

Some Web site links for additional Dog Guide Information

American Council of the Blind Website, revised Feb. 2003

• American Council of the Blind

• United States Guide Dog Schools

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This information is provided by the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind.