Orientation and Mobility Services

Assessment of individual travel needs and establishment of goals

This assessment is done to determine the specific services required and to evaluate the present levels of skills and effectiveness of instruction. We also aim to assess the achievement of goals for either an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or an Individualized Rehabilitation Plan (IRP)

Cane travel training

Our cane travel training program focuses on imparting essential skills for travel. This includes orientation, negotiating obstacles in one's path, and detecting hazards. Our goal is to ensure that all travelers can perform these tasks safely, efficiently, and with quality movement. We provide cane training in combination with other mobility devices, as well as visual and auditory skills training.

The image depicts two individuals crossing the street at a crosswalk, with one person using a white cane. There are cars stopped at the intersection and pedestrians waiting at a nearby bus stop. The surroundings consist of houses, trees, and cars, with a cloudy sky.

Referral to other relevant services

We offer guidance and support to help individuals understand the connection between adjustment to vision loss and their success in orientation and mobility (O&M) training. Together, we explore the components that contribute to an individual's self-esteem. We also identify available resources and make relevant referrals to ensure individuals benefit from a comprehensive approach to blind rehabilitation, including adjustment to vision loss.

Public transportation training

Our public transportation training program focuses on familiarizing clients with the available transportation systems in their location. We provide training on using tools, strategies, and technology to plan travel using public transportation. Additionally, we advocate for the development of an accessible and user-friendly transit system, educating clients about Canada's Transportation Act and Regulations regarding paratransit eligibility.

This image showcases two women walking together on a sidewalk, using the standard human guide grip. They are heading towards a city transit bus labelled "OC Transpo," which is parked by the side of the road.

Dog Guide unit O&M

We provide O&M training for dog guide applicants to equip them with the necessary skills and techniques before receiving their dog guide. This training includes orientation within their local home environment upon their return from the dog guide school.

The image is a woman at an intersection corner facing the crosswalk with her guide dog. A second woman is standing beside her on the right slightly behind.

Functional visual training

Our functional visual training program aims to optimize the use of functional vision through visual skills training for mobility. We assess and explore beneficial low-vision optical mobility devices, providing training on their correct usage. We also offer support and advice on environmental adaptations, such as adjustments to lighting and contrast, to cater to the needs of individuals with low vision.

Concept development

Concept development focuses on analyzing information perceived through touch, sound, feeling, and visual input. We help individuals explore the bigger picture by starting with small steps. This program covers various areas, including body, spatial, directional, and environmental concepts.

Auditory skills training

Using the auditory functions of individuals, we design training goals based on the results as well. Our auditory skills training emphasizes interpreting sound from a source and reflected sound to aid navigation within an environment.

Workplace O&M training

For clients requiring O&M training at their workplace, we assess their specific needs. This may involve new job placement or modifications to the existing environment. We provide training at the workplace, including guidance on travel routes from home to work. Additionally, we offer information, advice, and group training to employers and employees on the O&M needs of individuals who are blind or have low vision.

Credit: Benjamin Child. The image shows a large, modern conference room with large glass windows on one side with a continuous bench shape design for seating and a wooden table in the middle. There are a number of chairs around the table and a large flat-screen TV mounted on the wall at the far end. The walls are painted a light colour with one side halfway green to the bottom. The room is well-lit by natural light from the windows.

Use of adaptive technology for O&M

We help individuals recognize and understand the use of Adaptive Mobility Devices (AMDs) and Electronic Travel Devices (ETDs). Our training program focuses on teaching the use of accessible navigation applications.