on the net
visionconnection.org adds new content on children's vision

Launched a year ago by Lighthouse International and the Royal National Institute of the Blind in the United Kingdom, along with other eyecare-related organizations, www.visionconnection.org is primarily directed toward the partially sighted and the blind, providing information on low-vision rehabilitation and resources.

Recently, the site expanded its content base to include a special section on issues related to children's vision, while also expanding its "Help Near You" service that enables individuals with low vision and their families to find a low-vision specialist who's located near their home.

The section that can be accessed by clicking on the icon "Children's Vision" is quite comprehensive, with specific information on such child-related topics as vision testing at various ages, common pediatric vision problems, detecting vision problems, eye safety, and educating the visually impaired child. There's even information on appropriate toys that can be given to a visually impaired child that will help with his or her development.

The "Children's Vision" section also contains a "Parents' Resource List" consisting of organizations that parents of a visually impaired child can contact to receive information and help.

The majority of the content available at www. visionconnection.org is geared toward patients (and parents) and can be accessed in large and legible fonts. In the "Ask the Expert" section, a panel of professionals that includes ophthalmologists, optometrists, low-vision specialists and therapists answers questions on all aspects of children's and adults' eye problems, treatment options and the impact of visual impairment on quality of life.

Ophthalmologists who treat children can now confidently refer parents to visionconnection.org and recommend it as a comprehensive site offering a wide range of useful information about a variety of eyecare issues related to children.

Visit: www.visionconnection.org

If you've discovered a Web site or service that's been useful to you in practice or at home, we'd like to know about it. E-mail Jerry Helzner at helznergi@boucher1.com or call him at (215) 643-8013.