Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals

Vision

Neurological Vision Rehabilitation

Neurological visual deficits most commonly encountered by patients include double vision, impaired visual perception and partial vision, all of which can hinder rehabilitation. For instance, a stroke patient may have trouble learning to tell time because partial vision allows her to see only certain areas of the clock. Another patient may have difficulty with balance and mobility because his perception of where his center of gravity is located may not be accurate. Integrating appropriate visual strategies, techniques and equipment into transdisciplinary treatment results in better outcomes.

What does this treatment include?

Individuals referred for vision rehabilitation first receive a vision assessment by a neuro-optometrist. If appropriate for treatment, the neuro-optometrist will direct the occupational therapist on the treatment plan, which may include the use of specialized equipment, such as prism glasses, and teaching adaptive strategies to address vision impairments. These techniques and equipment are shared with other members of the patient’s rehabilitation team so they may be integrated into their treatment sessions to enhance learning and success. The neuro-optometrist will monitor the patient’s progress through re-evaluations and adjust the vision treatment plan according to the patient’s needs.

Who would benefit from the Vision Clinic?

People who have had a stroke, brain injury or other neurological illness or injury who experience one or
more of the following symptoms:

  • Views print from the corner of the eye
  • Collides into objects when moving about
  • Changes in vision throughout the day
  • Feels off-balance on one side
  • Anxious or unsure in a crowded area due to movement
  • Shadow vision
  • Easily distracted by motion on one side
  • Reluctant to turn head
  • Double vision
  • Shuts one eye or eye(s) appear to turn in, out, up or down
  • Dizziness, nausea, or spatial disorientation
  • Fuzzy or blurry vision
  • Needs to bring printed materials close to read
  • Has difficulty distinguishing colors
  • Loses place when reading
  • Constantly stares to one side
  • Easily distracted by motion on one side

The vision clinic is available on both an inpatient and outpatient basis. For an appointment or more information, call Madonna outpatient scheduling at 402.413.3900.

Low Vision Rehabilitation

Decreased vision creates a world of new challenges, from preparing meals, to taking medication and safe
mobility. Madonna offers low vision rehabilitation by specially trained occupational therapists who evaluate how reduced vision affects daily activities and offer solutions to improve function.

Low Vision Rehabilitation Services

Rehabilitation starts with a 60 to 90 minute evaluation. Tests include near and distance vision, visual fields
and reading skills to determine the person’s best visual location for seeing objects or reading.

An interview with the occupational therapist is conducted to determine strengths and weaknesses
and how much assistance is required. 

New techniques and training are offered for:

  • Daily living skills in the home and community
  • Low vision aids
  • Alternative viewing techniques
  • Blind spot (scotomae) awareness
  • Safety
  • Handwriting
  • Reading

Who would benefit from Madonna’s Low Vision Services?

  • Any sighted person who has experienced changes in his or her vision that affect daily living activities.
  • Persons with vision less than 20/70
  • Persons with macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy who have experienced symptoms of low vision
  • Other medical conditions that contribute to low vision

Vision Rehabilitation Team

  • Tanner Gates, OD

    Vision Program Director

  • Samantha Bohl, OD


  • Jessica Virgil, MOT, OTR/L, CBIS


  • Aubrey Adkisson MOT, OTR/L


  • Linda Storz, OTR/L, CDRS