Employing Technology to Restore Vision

Robert W. Massof is being recognized as a Champion of Change for his work with Lions to restore and enhance the sight of people with low vision.

More than 4 million Americans have low vision. That number is expected to double during the next 15 years. In the past 20 years, I have worked with Lions in my region through the Lions Vision Research Foundation because to be most effective, low-vision rehabilitation services should be provided in the person’s home and community. Through the years I have become very close to the Lions and think of them as family. It was not possible to separate my work at Johns Hopkins from my close relationship with the Lions.

Lions can and should be the community experts on low vision and advocates for their visually impaired neighbors. Low-vision service is in short supply and poorly distributed. Because most people with low vision are elderly, their disabilities from sight loss are amplified and many require help with transportation, shopping, home maintenance and a variety of other everyday needs. Lions educate the community about the limitations and capabilities of visually impaired people, help obtain the services they need, help visually impaired people solve problems with adapting to low vision and provide assistance to people with low vision when needed.

Robert W. Massof of Pasadena, Md., is a member of the Baltimore Brooklyn Lions Club.