Virtual Vision Mate

Did you know that Canadians who are blind or partially sighted experience triple the risk of clinical depression, particularly among seniors?

To combat the negative ramifications that isolation can have on Canadians with sight loss, the CNIB Foundation has adapted one of its core program offerings, the Vision Mate program, to engage volunteers to connect virtually with participants by phone or online at least once a week. Volunteers can also pick up groceries or prescriptions.

Volunteers will be screened and have an opportunity to ask questions before being connected with someone with sight loss. A supervisor is available for ongoing support and training.

“I appreciate CNIB for the care they show me and just having someone to check on me in this challenging time. It is nice to know someone is looking out for me. I live alone and it means a lot to have a Vision Mate that calls me regularly just to talk. Thank you for all you do and truly showing care."

Need for program:
•More than 500,000 Canadians are living with significant sight loss today-100,000 among them are registered with CNIB.
•An estimated six million Canadians have an eye disease that, if untreated, could lead to blindness.
•As a result of the aging demographic, these numbers will increase over the next 25 years.
•84% of Canadians with sight loss need practical assistance from family and friends for such things as mobility, personal care, and household management.

BECOME A VOLUNTEER!

Vision Mates (Classic)
•Provide regular, one-to-one in-person assistance and companionship for a person with sight loss.
•Matches are made with someone who is close to your home, school, or work.
•Assist with tasks such as reading, running errands, and going for walks.
•Minimum 6-month commitment; scheduled visits once per week.

Vision Mates (Virtual)
•Engage in friendly conversation and offer support to a person with sight loss over the phoNe or online.
•Matches can be made based on similar interests and hobbies.
•Opportunity to transition to in-person visits if both parties agree.
•Minimum 6-month commitment; scheduled visits once per week.

Impact of program
•Making lives better, encouraging social interaction for persons who are blind or partially sighted.
•Helping persons experiencing sight loss to gain confidence, knowledge, and a peer support network.

To become a volunteer and learn more, please visit the following link:

https://www.cnib.ca/en/volunteer-opportunity/vision-mate-1?region=bc