Edna lives on her own and is fiercely independent. For many years she worked as a doctor’s receptionist. Since her sight and hearing have deteriorated she has found it more and more difficult to cope. She spent a lot of time on her own at home but maintains a very positive outlook on life. She is determined to stay in her own home and keep her independence but become increasingly frustrated with tasks that she was no longer able to do easily. In 2004 Edna was referred to Sense and since January 2005 she has had someone visiting her once a week. The activities she does with this support include shopping trips, sorting the correspondence and chatting over a cup of coffee.
Mary is 77 and lost her sight about ten years ago and has lost eighty per cent of her hearing. She uses a communicator guide twice a week. That person acts as her eyes and ears telling her about her surroundings and helping her to communicate. They take her shopping, read the local newspaper to her and fill in forms. She used to read a lot before losing her sight but has always loved knitting and continues to make blankets for people in the developing world.
She learnt braille when she was well into her 60s and she says it was quite a challenge but was determined to achieve it. Mary would advise anyone who is over 60 to get help and to contact Sense.
Daniel Patrick, aged 21 is deafblind. He uses the Deafblind Manual Alphabet to communicate- spelling words onto hands. Accessible technology also allows him to use e-mail and he has created his own website. Daniel has been on several accessible holidays organised by Sense and taken part in Sense campaigns. This has even included giving a speech at the House of Commons.
To find out about Edna, Mary and other case studies contact the press team.
