Vision Services




The STAR Center offers a wide range of services for individuals with visual impairments. These services are available to individuals of all ages, who are visually impaired or blind.

The Vision Services Department includes:
  • Optometric Low Vision Consultation
  • Orientation and Mobility
“I’ve been coming to The Star Center since I was five years old. I’ve attended Music Therapy, Learning Lab, Art Therapy, and Orientation and Mobility training. The Star Center is a fun place to learn new things and become more independent. I believe that The Star Center will help my dreams of going to college and being independent come true.”

Optometric Low Vision Consultation
The Optometric Low Vision Consultation is a comprehensive low vision evaluation provided by a licensed optometrist who is specifically trained in low vision. This examination is specific to a patient’s eye condition, remaining vision, and goals for improving their daily activities. During the examination, the doctor will:  

  • Establish an accurate level of vision by testing the ability to see details, evaluating the extent of visual fields and general eye health
  • Work in conjunction with your current doctors to maintain comprehensive care;
  • Coordinate with professionals within the Star Center and in the Jackson/Madison county area, as well as with other organizations, who work with the visually impaired to maximize low vision management
  • Prescribe special optical devices and non-optical solutions that best enhance remaining vision, such as:
    • Magnifiers
    • Prisms
    • High-powered reading glasses
    • Telescopes
    • Electronic magnification systems
Orientation and Mobility
The Orientation and Mobility Program provides individuals with skills and adaptive equipment which enable them to develop or enhance their ability to travel independently. The STAR Center's Orientation and Mobility Specialists provide one-on-one client centered instruction to blind or visually impaired individuals. The Orientation and Mobility Specialists teaches these individuals to travel in a variety of environments and special situations. The following includes some objectives of the program:

  • Assessment of current skills.
  • Orientation to the client’s home, work, and other significant environments.
  • Pre-cane techniques (sighted guide, trailing, protective skills, and search techniques).
  • Long cane techniques (street crossings, sidewalk travel, rural travel, residential travel, and downtown travel).
  • Children's services:
    • Using auditory information for orientation.
    • Organizing and integrating information from all senses.
    • Development of moving, reaching, and walking skills.
    • Improving body posture and gait.