Northeast Sight Services Empowers Independence During Low Vision Awareness Month
February marks Low Vision Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about visual impairments that cannot be fully corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medication or surgery. For many individuals across Northeastern Pennsylvania, low vision can affect everyday activities like reading, cooking, recognizing faces or managing medications.
But vision loss doesn’t have to mean a loss of independence.
Here in NEPA, Northeast Sight Services helps individuals of all ages navigate vision changes with confidence through rehabilitation services, assistive technology, in-home support and community-based programs designed to keep people active, safe and connected.
A Hands-On Resource in Exeter
Headquartered in Exeter, Northeast Sight Services operates its main office along with a dedicated Vision Resource Center, a welcoming space where individuals can explore tools and technology that support daily living.
Open to the general public, the Vision Resource Center is designed to feel approachable and accessible — more like a specialty retail space than a clinical setting. Individuals experiencing vision changes, along with family members, caregivers and professionals, are encouraged to stop in and explore the wide range of products available.
From handheld magnifiers and electronic video magnification systems to talking devices, large-print tools, adaptive kitchen items and specialized lighting, the center offers practical solutions that can make everyday tasks more manageable.
Because selecting the right tools often requires individualized guidance, appointments are strongly encouraged. One-on-one consultations allow visitors to receive tailored recommendations based on their specific goals, whether that means reading more comfortably, cooking safely, managing medications independently or returning to a favorite hobby.
Serving the Region — and Bringing Resources Closer to Home
While based in Exeter, Northeast Sight Services serves individuals throughout Luzerne County and neighboring communities in Wyoming, Wayne and Pike counties. Recognizing that distance and transportation can be barriers — particularly in more rural areas — the organization also hosts a Mobile Vision Resource Center at scheduled dates across the region.
These outreach events bring assistive technology, product demonstrations and educational resources directly into local communities, offering residents the opportunity to explore options closer to home. Community members are encouraged to watch for upcoming Mobile Vision Resource Center dates as they are announced.
Support That Meets People Where They Are
Beyond its resource centers, Northeast Sight Services provides independent in-home support, offering personalized assistance within an individual’s own living environment. For some, this may involve a one-time visit to assess safety concerns, improve lighting and contrast or recommend adaptive tools. For others, it may include regularly scheduled visits to assist with organizing mail and bills, managing paperwork, developing household systems or building confidence in daily routines.
This flexible approach ensures that support is tailored to each person’s needs, helping individuals maintain independence in the place they feel most comfortable — their home.
The organization also recognizes that vision loss can impact more than daily tasks. It can lead to social withdrawal and isolation, particularly among older adults adjusting to changes in their sight. To address this, Northeast Sight Services offers social and recreational programs designed to foster engagement and peer connection. Through group activities, educational gatherings and shared experiences, participants build friendships, exchange practical strategies and remain active members of the community.
Raising Awareness and Reducing Stigma
Low Vision Awareness Month is about more than education — it’s about empowerment. Because vision loss is often invisible, many individuals delay seeking help. By highlighting available resources and encouraging open conversation, organizations like Northeast Sight Services are helping reduce stigma and ensure that individuals know support is available locally.
For those experiencing changes in vision, the first step can be as simple as reaching out. With the right tools, training and encouragement, independence remains within reach.
To learn more about services or to schedule an appointment at the Exeter office, visit northeastsight.org or call (570) 693-3555.
