Vision service
When it comes to vision loss, we’re experts. Here, we’ve provided some general information about vision loss.
About
vision
service
About vision service
NextSense provides a range of vision services, supporting children, adults and their families at every stage
For children who are blind or have low vision, tailored opportunities for early learning, as part of an early intervention program, build confidence and set the foundations for higher learning and critical life skills.
Our specialist eye health professionals can assess your child’s vision and our assistive technology consultants will work with you to develop strategies and access to technology to best support your goals.
The importance of early intervention
A tailored approach to early intervention is important for children who are blind or have low vision to ensure:
— all areas of their development are on track and not delayed
— they have early access to literacy by introducing assistive technology, low vision aids and/or braille, as required
— they have early access to orientation and mobility support.
We want early intervention to be meaningful, functional and fun. We know that children learn best when they are having fun and when early intervention goals are integrated into daily routines and community activities.
Our program is designed to empower you and your family to support your child’s learning and development every day, at home and in the community.
Through play, daily routines and meaningful experiences, we work with you to support your child’s development in preparation for school. This may involve focusing on braille literacy, low vision aid training, assistive technology and therapies. Supported by the latest evidence, our programs help you access the right early intervention support for your child, from when their low vision or blindness is identified onwards.
Your vision journey
Your child is unique, so we work with you to design a tailored program that meets their needs, developing the communication, language and social skills that will support your child and family at every stage.
Through play, daily routines and meaningful experiences, we work with you to support your child’s development in preparation for school. This may involve focusing on braille literacy, low vision aid training, assistive technology and therapies.
Supported by the latest evidence, our programs help you access the right early intervention support for your child, from when their low vision or blindness is identified onwards.
While there are some common causes, the experience of people who are blind or have low vision is unique. This page has some information to get you started, but it’s always best to talk to our team—we provide individual programs for your child and family to help achieve the best possible outcomes.
NextSense maintains the Australian Childhood Vision Impairment Register (ACVIR), the only national register of children with significant vision loss. We encourage children (from birth to 18 years) and their families to join the register, to help build an accurate picture of childhood vision loss across Australia, and to identify the supports children and their families need.
What causes vision loss in children?
Many things can cause vision loss in children, including
— eye conditions that have been inherited
— the influence of pre-term birth on the child’s eyes and their brain; and
— other conditions that children are born with, or develop as they grow.
Many things can cause vision loss in children, including
— the eye
— the connections between the eye and the brain
— the parts of the brain involved in vision.
What is orientation and mobility?
Good question! Orientation and mobility (or O&M, as it’s known) is about helping people who are blind or have low vision to move safely and independently through an environment.
When it comes to O&M, the earlier these skills are introduced, the more confidently and independently people with vision loss can navigate their world.
And depending on their age, personal preference, degree of vision, the types of activities they engage with and the environments they need to move in, there are a range of O&M supports, including:
— assistance from a sighted guide
— a cane, or a pushable mobility device for young children
— a guide dog
— assistive devices and other technologies, such as electronic travel aids that use ultrasound or infrared light to detect when a physical object is near.
NextSense provides innovative and customised services aimed at breaking down barriers for children, adults and families of people with hearing loss.
low vision
vision loss.
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An expert team in your corner
With NextSense, you don’t just get one expert, you get a team of professionals who are focused on helping your child to reach their goals.
Led by an expert consultant, known as your key worker, your team of professionals work together to deliver your family’s individual care plan.
Your key worker is there to support you, providing intervention and individualised service planning, coordinating your child’s services and supports and making sure they have access to a range of experiences and opportunities.
Designed specifically for your child and your family, your individual plan may include:
— medical specialists
— preschool and childcare
— respite workers
— playgroup
— parent information sessions
— teachers of the Deaf (TOD)
— speech pathologists
— occupational therapists
— physiotherapists
— psychologists
— audiologists
— assistive technology consultants
— early childhood teachers
— a family support service
Is vision
services for you?
We understand that navigating the world of hearing and vision services can be overwhelming.
Let us assist you in finding the right service to meet your needs. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
What people say about us
Learn how NextSense has made a difference through real stories of care, expertise, and empowerment. Read more about their experience here.
Vision news and stories
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Education experts gather to address global challenges affecting children with vision loss
Hats off to our new Masters graduates
Response to the Disability Royal Commission recommendations on inclusive education
Student clinical placements a winning formula
FAQs
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