An orientation to vision loss program: meeting the needs of newly visually impaired older adults.

An Orientation to Vision Loss program was developed to meet the needs of individuals, and their families, new to the difficult experience of vision loss. Program components address: education regarding services and resources, issues around the emotional response to vision loss and adjustment, tips and ideas for daily functioning, and enhancing families' awareness of how the vision loss "looks." Peer counselors co-facilitate the experience. Evaluations have been overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing satisfaction and recognizing value in their participation.