Find out the latest news, campaign updates and resources from RNIB.
RNIB news and updates
Getting the most out of technology
Help is at hand for people with sight loss who want advice or assistance in setting up their latest IT gadget.
RNIB's Technology Support Squad has 1000 volunteers across the UK who can help set up computers, televisions and provide advice on a range of devices.
Heath professionals and charity workers are being urged to highlight this free service to patients and service users. To get support from our Technology Support Squad call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk
New Beacon - Sight loss magazine for professionals is now free
NB, the magazine for professionals working with people with sight loss, has been relaunched and will now be available for free.
NB is a bimonthly magazine for eye health and sight loss professionals published by the charity Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).
The magazine gives professionals up to date information on the latest research, treatments and news that helps them support people at the point of diagnosis and when coping with sight loss.
Regular features will focus on shared practice and interviews with people working in the field, plus careers advice and job vacancies for professionals looking to move into eye health.
View the latest version of NB.
Are you app to date?
The latest editions of the new free online NB (see previous news item) features a round-up of accessible apps and websites for blind and partially sighted people.
View the Are you app to date? NB feature.
Travel matters
RNIB have launched a free travel pack to help blind and partially sighted people use public transport.
Using public transport is an essential part of everyday life. However, it can be challenging to use public transport if you have sight problems, especially when services vary depending on where you live and who operates them.
For professionals working with blind or partially sighted patients, RNIB's new travel pack could be a great starting point for encouraging them to use public transport. The pack contains a number of resources including a guide for safe and independent travel, a customer service guide and a DVD with top tips from blind and partially sighted people about using buses. The pack is available in large print, braille and on audio CD. Order your pack today by calling 0303 123 9999 or emailing helpline@rnib.org.uk. Alternatively, you can download the pack from our Travel section.
RNIB is also working closely with operators to improve transport services for blind and partially sighted people, as well as campaigning for changes to public transport.
Latest resources for professionals
New Resources section for you
We have updated our Resources for professionals who work with older people section. The new section includes information and resources on communicating with blind and partially sighted people, making the environment suitable, training, dementia and sight loss, care and supported housing, and supporting older people in the community.
Visit the new Resources for professionals working with older people section.
New cataracts and dementia factsheet
The Dementia and Sight Loss Interest Group has produced a new fact sheet on cataracts and dementia.
Cataracts are a very common eye condition in older people. Most people with cataracts are over the age of 60 and they become more common as people age. Because of this many people may face having a cataract operation while also dealing with dementia.
This fact sheet is for people with dementia, their families, carers and health and social care professionals. It covers:
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what a cataract is and its effect on vision
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how to tell if you or someone you care for has a cataract
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cataract surgery and the difference it can make to a person's quality of life
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how to prepare for surgery
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how to help someone with dementia cope with surgery
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what happens after surgery.
Read the Cataracts and dementia factsheet.
Getting interested in technology videos
Getting interested in technology has never been as simple and as easy to do as it is today. RNIB - supported by BT, have worked together to create a series of videos designed to help the people you work with to get started. Whether it is keeping in touch with friends and family, managing money or getting out and about, there is technology that can help.
In 2011, BT supported us to investigate the barriers preventing older people with sight loss from using the internet. The results highlighted a need to promote the advantages of getting online. Having access to technology can enhance almost every part of people's lives and feeling included, is today very much about being connected. This is particularly the case for people with sight loss.
"Getting interested in technology" is part of RNIB's initiative to show blind and partially sighted people that it isn't complicated to get started with technology. In our short series of videos we cover all of the popular topics and questions around technology and have made it really simple and user friendly.
Latest research
Keep to to date with the the latest research relevant to your profession at our Older people and sight loss: Key research section.
Recent additions include:
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the evaualtion of our Finding Your Feet programme. Key findings of the research include sustained increases in the mental well being over four and 12 month periods and evidence increased independence linked to confidence and reduced isolation.
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our new Sight loss data tool which gives factual information about sight loss issues for each region and local authority in England.
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Britain's Eye Health in Focus report 2013. This looks into how people view their eye health and the role of the optometrist.