Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to be totally blind to get services from The Lighthouse?
A: No, many of our clients have some residual vision or meet the definition of legally blind.
Q: Is there a charge for services from The Lighthouse?
A: Generally, there is no charge for most of our services.
Q: Is transportation available?
A: Clients may qualify for free transportation to Lighthouse programs. We also operate a fee based van service for trips to doctors, grocery stores, and recreation, ect.
Q: How do I qualify for services from The Lighthouse?
A: Generally, clients who are legally blind may qualify for services.
Q: What kinds of jobs can a blind person do?
A: With improved access to technology and training, visually impaired and blind individuals can perform a wide variety of jobs such as manager supervisors, computer technicians, teachers, lawyers, occupational therapists, and customer service representatives, and so on.
Q: Are there accessible cell phones for the blind and visually impaired?
A: There are a number of options available to allow blind individuals to access cell phones and all of its function. One such solution is Mobile Speak software. This solution will allow menus, keypad, and caller id functions to be spoken to the user. There are also some “off the shelf” cell phones that have some speech output and also have features such as voice command or voice dial which will allow the user to have voice activated access to some phone functions. Consult your provider to see
what solutions are available.
Q: How do I get books on tape?
A: Books on tape can be acquired through the Library of Congress. Most states have a State Library in one of their major cities. Library patrons can expect to borrow audio or Braille books such as they might find in print at a local public library. Books and magazines in audio form (talking books) and Braille are delivered to eligible readers by postage-free mail and are returned in the same manner. These books on tape are usually recorded on four-sided tapes requiring a special player from the library. People who participate in this program will receive this special player at no cost after completing the application process through their State Library.
Q: How can a blind person use a computer?
A: Yes! Specialized software such as JAWS allows blind individuals to access a computer. JAWS is a screen reader program that “speaks” what is displayed on the screen and echoes the keys as they are pressed. This program allows blind computer users to surf the internet, read and compose e-mail, download music and burn cds. Additionally, there is screen magnification software such as ZoomText which enlarges the screen for partially sighted individuals.
Q: Can The Lighthouse help me find a job?
A: The Lighthouse has an Employment Services division which will work closely with clients along with Louisiana Vocational Rehabilitation, to find the right job for clients.
