FAQs for professionals, employers and educators

Have questions about the referral process or the services we offer? We have answers! If you're not able to find the answer to your question below, feel free to email us at info@vlrehab.ca​.

About Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada

Eligibility and services

Referring a patient

About Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada

What does Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada do?

Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada is the country's leading provider of vision loss rehabilitation services. We serve people of all ages and types of vision loss – from low vision to total blindness – on referral from health care professionals, as well as community organizations, family members, and patients themselves. Our certified specialists provide our clients with a range of services to help them build their mobility, independence and confidence.

Are you affiliated with CNIB?

Yes, CNIB is one of our affiliate organizations. Although we are a distinct and separate organization, we are proud to partner with the CNIB team to improve the lives of people who are blind or partially sighted across Canada. Learn more about our relationship with CNIB by clicking here. 

Is Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada a charity?

No, we are not a charitable organization, and we receive no funding from donations of any kind.

How are you funded?

The services offered by Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada are funded by provincial governments across Canada. Click here to learn more about how we're funded.

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​Eligibility and services

What services do you offer?

Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada offers a wide variety of programs and services for people of all ages and all types of vision loss. Our services are designed to help people regain their independence, safety and mobility following a loss of sight. Click here to learn more about our services.

What are the eligibility criteria for your clients?

Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada doesn't have a minimum visual acuity standard for referrals. In most cases, referrals are recommended as soon as an individual has lost enough vision to interfere with their confidence and ability to complete everyday tasks. 

What can individuals expect from their rehabilitation plan?

Our certified specialists will work closely with the individual to identify their goals and objectives, and to develop a comprehensive and personalized rehabilitation plan that will help them increase their confidence and independence.

What credentials do your specialists hold?

Most of our specialists are fully certified by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals, and those who have not yet received certification are in the process of completing the requirements to be certified. We are committed to providing the highest quality of care for every person we serve. Click here to learn more about the expertise and training of our specialists.

Where in Canada are your services available?

We serve people across Canada, including in rural and remote locations. Depending on the patient's location, as well as their needs, our services may be delivered in the patient's home or community, their workplace, over the phone, online or at one of our clinic locations. 

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Referring a patient

How can I refer someone?

You can refer someone you know or work with using our online referral form. By completing it, you'll give us the information we need to get started. We'll then work with that individual one-on-one to develop a personalized rehabilitation plan for them.

Can individuals refer themselves?

Yes, individuals – or members of their family – are welcome to reach out to Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada directly by completing our Individuals and Families Referral Form.

How quickly will you contact the individual after I refer them?

Within 10 business days of receiving your referral, we'll contact the individual to discuss their goals and work with them to develop a customized rehabilitation plan. If, after reviewing your referral, the individual is considered an urgent case, we will contact them within one business day.​

What information will I receive about the individual's ongoing care?

Within one month of the individual beginning their personalized rehabilitation plan, we'll update you to let you know what services they are receiving.

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