Visually Impaired and Blind

Support for the Visually Impaired

The greatest number of eyes, though are focused on our programs related to the visually impaired. The Institute does not provide medical, surgical or optical help for patients. Instead, it concentrates entirely on those persons for whom physicians can no longer provide help. The Institute's philosophy is that no matter when severe visual loss occurs, or how it happens, there is always "something more that can be done". We have, for example, the largest support groups for elderly patients with macular degeneration in the United States. They are also among the most long-standing programs anywhere. Many people who focus their eyes on the Detroit Institute of Ophthalmology only know us because of our work with the visually impaired. But, as you can see, our other mission initiatives are important as well.

Support Groups for the Visually Impaired and Blind

Senior Groups

Friendship, Fun and Understanding

1st and 3rd Monday September to June
10:00A.M. - 11:30 A.M. Grosse Pte Park

1st and 3rd Monday September toi June
1:00P.M. - 2:15 P.M. St Clair Shores

1st and 3rd Wednesday September to June
10:00A.M. - 11:30 A.M. Grosse Pte Park

Visionaries Group 55 years and younger

1st Wednesday September to June
6:00P.M. - 7:30 P.M. Grosse Pte Park

Contact Nancy Pilorget 313-824-4710 ex 225

Friendship, Fun and Understanding

Our support groups provide a comfortable environment to discuss the challenges of living fully with a visual impairment. Our groups number 25-30 members and we hear speakers on a variety of topics.

We also break up into smaller discussion groups to share the difficulties and successes of daily life. From time to time there is a day trip or holiday celebrations enjoyed by the support group members.

There is NO charge to the support group members for attendance at general meetings. Individuals may attend the support group as long as they like; many friendships have developed within the groups. New members are encouraged to attend at least four meetings to begin.

When possible we try of assist in providing transportation to our meetings. Currently we provide transportation assistance for the following cities. Eastside of Detroit, Eastpointe, Roseville, Warren, Grosse Pointe and St Clair Shores. To assist in our commitment to our members we are always looking for volunteer drivers in these areas. If you are interested in volunteering please call Nancy Pilorget 313-824-4710 ex 225.

For more information, please contact Nancy Pilorget, Director of Support Service for the Visually Impaired 313-824-4710 ex 225 or email at npilorget@mycomcast.com