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Don’t delay, seek help today

October 11, 2016

A recent Guide Dogs Australia survey revealed 50% of clients waited more than two years before asking for the help they needed to maintain healthy, active and independent lifestyles.

 

Image of a woman with a cane walking alongside a Guide Dogs instructor on a boardwalk

Worse still, the survey showed a staggering one in four will wait more than 10 years before asking for help.

Today is International White Cane Day and Guide Dogs is launching a national campaign, Don’t Delay, Seek Help Today, to raise awareness around how we can support people through their vision loss journey.

Vision loss in those aged over 40 increases the risk of falls by two times, the risk of depression by three times and the risk of hip fractures from four to eight times[1].

CEO Dan English said seeking assistance can not only help to reduce this risk, but also help people to maintain their mobility and independence.

“It is important people contact us to find out about the services we offer to make a positive change in their mobility,” Mr English said.

“While training Guide Dogs is an important part of our work, our most common program is showing people with vision impairments how to safely move through different environments, using a range of mobility aids such as the long cane and electronic devices.”

Sight is often the key to independence and a person’s freedom, so it is important we reach out to those who need help.

If you or someone you know is experiencing any issues with vision loss, help is just a phone call away. Contact us on 1800 810 122 or click here to find out more about the support services we offer.

We all deserve a life of mobility, independence and freedom. Let’s raise awareness and change lives together.

 

[1] Access Economics – Clear Focus: The Economic Impact of Vision Loss in Australia in 2009



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