DISABILITY ISSUES
Vol. 20 No. 1

Perkins School Reaches Out to Elders

The Perkins School for the Blind in Watertown, Massachusetts is offering a new program called The Elder Learning Program. Designed to compliment its in-home services, The Elder Learning Center will bring together individuals who are elderly and visually impaired for training and recreational activities on the Perkins campus. Most of the programs will mirror the essential training and activities currently provided within the home, by Perkins Outreach Services, but will offer the alternative of learning and sharing in a group setting. It will also offer exciting new topics such as a book club, gardening, and oriental cooking.

Perkins Outreach Services to Elders is an individualized program in which highly trained Perkins professionals visit the homes of elders with visual impairments. Staff help elders adapt ways of caring for themselves and going about their routine tasks and activities. These home services may be arranged by calling Perkins at the number below.

Learning Center programs will run Tuesdays and Thursdays. Classes are scheduled in half day blocks from 10 a.m. - 12 noon and 1p.m. - 3 p.m.. Participants may choose to attend a full day (both sessions) or either one of the half-day sessions. Participants will be responsible for their own transportation, although staff can work with them to identify options. The program is offered at no cost.

You may contact the Elder Learning Center at (617) 972-7643.