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Disability Awareness Night |
| Posted by administrator (administrator) on Nov 18 2009 |
The IDSA recently held a disability awareness night in Kinsale Yacht Club. Lighthearted at times, the night was described by those in attendance as both enlightening and informative.
First to speak was James Homour of the National Council for the Blind. James explained that most people have some vision and very few are completely blind. That stated, James noted that the term 'vision impaired' is typically used nowadays as opposed to 'Blind' or 'visually impaired' which was used in the past but when taken literally suggested that such person looked different, this drew a smile form the audience. Simulation spectacles were on hand to allow people to experience the main forms of vision impairment, tunnel vision, peripheral vision, glaucoma and the consequences of loss of site through diabetes. James noted keeping the environment unchanged and familiar to the vision impaired person will aid in the maintenance of independence and dignity.
Ber O'Neill spoke about DCD, Developmental Coordination Disorder: Dyspraxia. Ber noted is both a physical and sensory disorder but is often referred to as the hidden disability as it is most often not readily noticeable. Ber noted that understanding is very important.
Mags O'Connor and Ursula Jermyn spoke on behalf of IWA, Irish Wheelchair association. They noted that the IWA represents no one disability but instead encompasses a broad range of disabilities within the organization. They stressed the importance of manual handling training for anyone involved in lifting/transferring people with disabilities. They went on to note that it is important to remember that just because two people might have the same disability, doesn't mean they will have the same ability
By the time it for Helen Finucane (Enable Ireland) and for Terence Mcsweeney and Nathalie Kane (Cope) to speak, each felt that the main topics had been covered by the previous speakers yet each went on to make a valuable contribution to the night. "Nothing about us without us" stated Helen. Terrance noted that the language of disability is very important. Nathalie who is a trainer on summer sailing program for children with disability in Kinsale spoke of her approach and experience when training.
Chat continued over tea and sandwiches and finger food.
Last changed: Nov 18 2009 at 2:32 AM
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