Support group members enjoying Tactile Day with Philly Touch Tours at the Penn Museum in 2019. They have been meeting virtually since the pandemic began in March 2020.
By Kristen Mulvihill
Scheie Vision Annual Report 2020
As in-person group gatherings came to a halt amid the global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Penn Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation’s Vision Loss Support Group moved to a virtual platform.
Led by Ranjoo Prasad, OD, the center supports individuals with visual impairments that can no longer be improved through medical or surgical means. The support group, led by Sheri Grand Drossner, a Clinical Research Coordinator at the Scheie Eye Institute, serves as a platform for members to share their experiences, ask questions, and learn from other participants and guest speakers.
With its first meeting held in January 2017, the Vision Loss Support Group typically meets in person each month in the Ralston House. However, starting in March, the group had to cancel in-person meetings as a result of the spread of COVID-19.
“After missing that first meeting, we quickly decided that we still needed a way to stay in touch and feel connected to one another,” explained Sheri. Marquis Vaughn, Community Outreach Coordinator, organized a private teleconference line through the University of Pennsylvania for the participants, and until recently, continued with the calls every other week. At the end of June, group meetings transitioned to BlueJeans, offering participants the chance to connect with both audio and video. The group now holds meetings once a month.
Despite not being able to meet in person, the group’s mission to support individuals with vision loss is still upheld virtually. “Having the ability and the time to share fears, frustrations, inspirational thoughts, and tips has been invaluable to our participants, especially during the pandemic,” said Sheri.
Under normal circumstances, the group hosts occasional guest speakers who share expertise on various topics, including the assistive devices and technologies available for patients with vision loss. In August, the group virtually invited speakers from Associated Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ASB), including Beth Deering, Chief Program Officer, and Lynn Heitz, Director of Education and Enrichment Programming. Beth and Lynn shared information about ASB services and how to access these resources during the pandemic. In September, the group hosted Angel Chambers from the Free Library of Philadelphia to describe the programs offered and how to register for these services.
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought great uncertainty and panic to individuals around the globe. During meetings, members of the support group voiced concerns about social isolation, experiencing a lack of motivation, and being inundated with distressing news. Regarding transportation issues and safety concerns, members also expressed anxieties about traveling to essential places, like doctors’ offices and grocery stores. Many individuals with visual impairments rely on shared-ride programs, such as SEPTA’s CCT program, which was very limited at the beginning of the pandemic.
“Discussing these issues was particularly useful for helping participants realize they are not the only ones feeling this way,” said Sheri. “Some participants had inspiring and uplifting comments to share, discussing the things they are enjoying, such as having time to try new recipes or practice meditation and prayer.”
"Although the group meets virtually now, the connections and eagerness to support one another are still there,” said Marquis. “We are so blessed to have one another, especially during these uncertain times."
While the group continues to progress in the midst of this health crisis, they hope to meet in person again when it is safe to do so. However, Dr. Prasad and Sheri have discussed how to continue the use of the virtual platform in conjunction with their in-person meetings, offering an opportunity for members lacking transportation to still participate in the group.
Serving as an outlet during these precarious times, the virtual Vision Loss Support Group has received positive feedback from participants. “The group members are so appreciative to have this outlet for connection, and we are so happy to organize and provide it,” said Sheri.
“I can only say wonderful things about having the ability to hold the group virtually,” said Dr. Prasad. “Even though the members would love to meet in person, they are very grateful for the continued connection.”