Frequently Asked Questions

How to obtain Services from Bucks County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Q: Who is eligible for services from the Bucks County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired?

A: Any Bucks County resident who has a vision impairment corrected to no better than 20/70 is eligible for services.

Q: How do I become a client?

A: Call the Bucks County Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired at 1-800-472-8775 (toll free in Bucks County) or 215-968-9400 and ask to speak with a social worker.

Q: Is there any charge for services?

A: Most services are free of charge. The exceptions are low vision examinations and occupational therapy. These services are generally covered by your insurance, Medicare, or state funding but there are a few exceptions. There may be a small co-pay depending on your insurance or Medicare.

Eye Care Q&A

Q: Is reading in dim light harmful to my eyes?

A: No. Using your eyes in dim light does not damage them. For centuries, all nighttime reading and sewing was done by candlelight or with gas or kerosene lamps. Good lighting does make reading easier and prevents eye fatigue, especially for people who wear bifocals.

Q: Will extended use of a computer damage my eyes?

A: No. Working on computers or video display terminals (VDTs) will not harm your eyes. Often, when using a VDT for long periods of time, just as when reading or doing other close work, you blink less often than normal. This reduced rate of blinking makes your eyes dry, which may lead to the feeling of eyestrain or fatigue.

Try to take regular breaks to look up or across the room and consider the use of artificial tears. Looking at objects further away usually relieves the strain on your eyes. If your vision blurs or your eyes tire easily, you should have your eyes examined by an ophthalmologist