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Visual Impairment Services Outpatient Rehabilitation (VISOR) Program

VISOR enhances the independence and quality of life for Veterans and service members experiencing vision loss.

VISOR uses a team approach to provide services. All services are based on a thorough assessment of the Veteran’s strengths, needs, and personal goals.

Veterans and their families are encouraged to take an active role by identifying personal goals and providing ongoing feedback.

Services are primarily provided at the VISOR clinic. Some services may be provided in the community or Veteran’s home, within 50 miles of the VISOR Clinic.

Low Vision Services Provided

Low vision optometry evaluation

  • Provided by a licensed Optometrist, specializing in Low Vision  
  • Assesses current eye conditions and level of visual functioning
  • Prescribes glasses and other optical devices

Low vision therapy

  • Provided by a Certified Low Vision Therapist
  • Assesses and provides individualized training in the use of adaptive techniques and devices to promote independence in daily activities

Orientation and mobility (O&M)

  • Provided by a Certified O&M Specialist
  • Assess Veteran’s ability to maneuver safely and independently within the home and community
    • Training may include:
    • Sighted guide techniques
    • Use of a white cane
    • Safe traveling in the community
    • Use of a talking GPS system
  • Computer instruction:
    • Provided by an instructor who is versed in the area of adaptive technology
    • Assesses and provides training in the use of adaptive software that
    • Promotes independence in reading and writing with a computer

Eligibility

Veterans and service members who are eligible for VA Healthcare and experience one of the following:

  • Legal blindness
  • A decrease or change in vision that cannot be corrected with the use of standard glasses
  • A change in vision resulting from a traumatic brain injury or stroke

Referral to VISOR

Veterans enrolled in VA Healthcare can be referred by another clinic or through their VIST Coordinator.  A Veteran who is not enrolled in VA Healthcare can register here.  

What Veterans Say About VISOR

The VISOR Program participates in a national uSPEQ customer satisfaction survey to measure Veteran satisfaction with services. Results from the survey are tabulated by uSPEQ. The results below show the 2021 and September through December 2022 results. 

Highlights from 2023 feedback from Veterans:

  • 99% reported that Blind Rehabilitation VISOR staff paid attention to what they said
  • 99.6% felt treated with respect and courtesy
  • 98.6% Veterans reported service wait times are OK for me
  • 99.3% Veterans reported they would recommend Blind Rehabilitation VISOR to a friend.

HOPTEL

VISOR offers a five-day training program for Veterans who are unable to travel to Houston VA for regularly scheduled appointments.

  • Veterans are housed overnight in the Courtesy Quarters of the VA.
  • Veterans must be able to independently manage self-care, such as bathing, eating, dressing and grooming.
  • Veterans must be independent in managing medications.
  • If needed, a caregiver may accompany the Veteran and reside in the same room.

More information: Call the phone number below.

Contact

Location: Building 108 
More Info: Call 713-794-7532
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

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