ACB Focus: Health and Wellness: Recent Episodes
American Council of the Blind
Welcome to the Health and Wellness Track of the ACB Focus Podcast Series. The Health and Wellness Track contains programming that empowers individuals who are blind and visually impaired from under-represented communities and most at risk of additional physical, psychological, and social health complications to take command over their health.
Intracortical Visual Prosthesis Research Project
The project is being conducted by The Illinois Institute of Technology and The Chicago Lighthouse, and we invite you to come learn from the researchers about an experimental device intended to restore visual perception for individuals who are blind. Learn about the intracortical visual prosthesis device, the study, expectations, possible risks and benefits, process and post implant requirements.
20230702 1430 Defining the New NormalOriginally Broadcasted July 2, 2023, on ACB Media 4 In this post pandemic era, it seems as if everything has changed. This interactive workshop enabled participants to design and implement their personal version of the New Normal.Presenter: Pam Shaw, Philadelphia, PA Edited By: Larry Gassman
20230702 1300 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’sOriginally Broadcasted July 2, 2023, on ACB Media 4 A volunteer from the Alzheimer's Association of Illinois helped us to:
- Describe typical age-related memory.
- thinking or behavior changes
- Recognize common warning signs of Alzheimer's and Dementia
- Discuss tips for approaching someone about memory concerns.
- Explain the importance of early detection and benefits of diagnosis.
- Identify tests and assessments for the diagnostic process.
- Name the resources available through the Alzheimer's Association
Edited By: Larry Gassman
20230702 1300 Organize Yourself-How to Get and Keep Your Ducks in a RowOriginally Broadcasted July 2, 2023, on ACB Media
Ever watch someone seem to get everything done, all the time, without breaking a sweat? Wonder how they work, take care of the kids, travel, volunteer for everything, and seem to meet every deadline? How do they do it? Participants joined us as we learned the methods that Kenneth Semien, Sr, Michael Babcock, and Hindley Williams, use to get everything done and not lose their marbles.
Edited By: Doug Hunsinger
20230705 1430 Aging Over the RainbowOriginally Broadcasted July 5, 2023, on ACB Media 3 It ain't easy getting old and it sure ain't either, but in this session we explored resources for Aging with grace and vitality. Come one and all because no one can escape Father Time or Mother Nature as they drag us towards the finish line. Edited By: Darcy Burnard
20230705 1430 Educate, Empower and Excel in your journey with Diabetes.Originally Broadcasted July 5, 2023, on ACB Media 5 We all have a health journey with diabetes. ACBDA was pleased to bring two vibrant and compelling organizations that provide training, education, and motivation to everyone with diabetes in helping them to manage their health through empowerment. Participants learned more from these groups and how they can become involved in their presentations and discussions. Edited By: Larry Gassman
20230705 1600 Testimonials from our Members about their Diabetes JourneyOriginally Broadcasted July 5, 2023, on ACB Media 5 Again, this year we featured our members as they told us about their own personal journeys with diabetes. Some are type 1, others type 2. Some use Insulin, others take oral medications. The treatment and individual journeys are usually fascinating, riveting, and inspiring, with stories that are very specific to our member/panelists. This panel is usually packed with emotion and inspiration so please join us to learn more. Edited By: Larry Gassman
20230705 1300 Medicare DemystifiedOriginally Broadcasted July 5, 2023, on ACB Media 5 Participants joined us and heard from a licensed insurance broker who specializes in helping clients on Medicare sort out the best option for their situation. Attendees learned all about Medicare Part A, Part B, Part C, Part D, Medicare advantage plans, Original Medicare, Medicare supplements/Medigap and how to compare the many options to determine which one fits their needs the best. He also discussed where you can get professional unbiased advice at no charge no matter where you live in the country. Edited By: Larry Gassman
20230703 1430 The Four I’s of Low VisionOriginally Broadcasted July 3, 2023, on ACB Media 3 Identifying as a person with low vision or blindness has its challenges. This session discussed identity, individuality, independence, and inclusion as you walk through the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual journey of life. Participants shared their experiences, supported others, and learned. Edited By: John Gassman
20230701 1300 Confidently Communicate with CareOriginally Broadcasted July 1, 2023, on ACB Media 3 Communication takes time and practice. Did you know you can not, not communicate? The first step to communicating effectively is to focus on ourselves and the way we talk and listen to each other. Participants joined us as we learned about communication styles and methods at all levels, from exchanges in a professional setting, to advocating for your individual needs. As communicators we're always a work in progress and by joining us today we hope you will be inspired to better communicate and be better heard. Edited By: Tim Cumings
20230701 1130 Compassion Fatigue-When Helping You is Hurting MeOriginally Broadcasted July 1, 2023, on ACB Media 3 What is compassion fatigue? What are the signs? What to do about it? This engaging workshop can help you develop the self compassion tools you need to replenish your inner resources and take back your joy in giving. Edited By: Tim Cumings
20230623 1730 Releasing Pain from the Past Allows You to Age Gracefully-Conversations with LGBTQ+ Healing PractitionersOriginally Broadcasted June 23, 2023, on ACB Media 5 This session Focused on journeys with healing pain from the past, which included various modalities, such as Reiki, myofascial release, tapping, yoga, talk therapy, medication, meditation, and EMDR therapy. Edited By: Michael Babcock
20230623 1430 Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids-The Good the Bad and The Ugly!Originally Broadcasted June 23, 2023, on ACB Media 5
Participants listened and learned from Carol Hamer, audiologist with the Helen Keller National Center, Sands Point, NY and Carl Richardson, ADA Coordinator, and consumer, Brighten, MA about over the counter vs. prescribed hearing aids. The session was facilitated by Lori Scharff, VRT and advocate, Waynesboro, VA.
Edited By: Brian McCallen
Download the June 23, 2023: Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids: The Good, the Bad, the Ugly CART file
20230623 1300 This is my Story; this is my Song.Originally Broadcasted June 23, 2023, on ACB Media 2 It has been said that Mental Health is a journey, not a destination, and each of us has a unique story when it comes to our experience. Attendees joined us as three people shared their stories of strength, courage, and hope. Each panelist ended their presentations with a song that inspired them. Edited By: Darcy Burnard
20230623 1300 Aging into Dual Sensory Loss-What is the Road ForwardOriginally Broadcasted June 23, 2023, on ACB Media 5
Are you someone who has vision loss and is now experiencing hearing loss? If so, listen and learn as Jenee Alleman-Goodman, Older Adult Program Coordinator for the Helen Keller National Center (HKNC), Fort Leavenworth, KS shared information and tips for how to cope with and move forward on this journey.
Edited By: Doug Hunsinger
Download the June 23, 2023: Aging Into Dual Sensory Loss: What is the Road Forward? CART file
20230622 1000 Best Practices for Managing Type I and Type II DiabetesOriginally Broadcasted June 22, 2023, on ACB Media 3 Cleveland Clinic Diabetes Professionals discussed current best practices and latest changes/recommendations in managing Type I and Type II Diabetes. Edited By: Larry Gassman
The following is from the breakfast and listening session on life experiences with retina degenerative diseases, sponsored by Janssen, (a subsidiary of Johnson and Johnson), that took place July 1, 2023 at the American Council of the Blind Conference and Convention held at the Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center in Schaumburg, Illinois. Both in-person and remote attendees share their life experiences with retina degenerative diseases such as age-related Macular Degeneration, Retinitis Pigmentosa, Stargardt, and Laeber Congenital Amaurosis. First, in-person attendees introduce themselves followed by attendees who participated remotely via Zoom.
20220705 Me to the Third Power - Finding, Working and Sharing Myself - Our Journey with Mental Health and Emotional Well Being Originally Aired July 5, 2022, on ACB Media It’s been said we hear parts of our own stories in others. This panel of speakers shared the highs and lows of their individual journeys through emotional wellbeing. Edited By: Jenine Stanley
20220706 Knuckling Down with Peer Mentor Relations Originally Aired July 6, 2022, on ACB Media The ACBDA Peer Mentor Relations Program is a support network that encourages members who have experience with both Diabetes and/or sight loss(mentors), to confidentially interact with one or more of their peers who need extra support(mentees). This allows for the sharing of information and experiences, and the chance to gently challenge others to see what simple adjustments could be made to better support a life of both sight loss and Diabetes. These peer-to-peer bonds provide a safe place to discuss innovative ideas and move past some of the things that are uncomfortable, to gain a better knowledge and understanding of living with sight loss and Diabetes together. Knowing that we are not alone in these experiences can make a positive difference in our lives, and shed new light on the face of adversity, amidst the darkness in which so many of us live. Edited By: Larry Gassman
20220706 Accessible Pharmacy - Knuckling down on Accessibility Originally Aired July 6, 2022, on ACB Media Three Co-Founders of Accessible Pharmacy described their rationale behind the founding of a full-service pharmacy serving the needs of individuals with blindness and vision impairment. One of the business partners who is blind explained his vision for a full-service pharmacy, sharing his own personal disappointing experiences with mainstream pharmacies. Participants also heard from Accessible Pharmacy's Chief Medical Officer about accessible durable medical equipment, inclusive of continuous glucose monitors, and how Accessible Pharmacy works to meet the needs of their blind and vision impaired customers! Edited By: Larry Gassman
Episode Notes 20220705 Self-Care is Health Care Originally Aired July 5, 2022, on ACB Media Take charge of your physical, mental, and emotional health. ACB Next Generation and ACB's Get Up, Get Moving invited attendees to learn about the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Participants stretched out their bodies with: · Leslie Spoone, a Certified Fitness Instructor · Koni Sims, a retired Medical Massage Practitioner · Terry Suarez, a Certified Respiratory Therapist The attendees then energized their spirit by learning to relax! Participants also shared their best practices for self-care. Edited By: Michael Moran Notes go here
20220705 Accessible Covid 19 Testing Originally Aired July 5, 2022, on ACB Media Edited By: Douglas Hunsinger
20220705 Knuckling Down on Using and Demonstrating Durable Medical Equipment Originally Aired July 5, 2022, on ACB Media Presenter: Kim Ladd RN/BS, diabetes health education specialist. This session empowered clients to independently manage their diabetes and other chronic diseases with low or no vision. Kim's passion for preventing diabetes and its complications through education stems from first-hand experience. Not only does she deal with diabetes daily, but many of her family members do so as well. Kim demonstrated how to use many different devices for diabetes. Edited By: Larry Gassman
20220705 Knuckling Down on Endocrinology - Current and Future Treatment Strategies Originally Aired July 5, 2022, on ACB Media Participants heard from a panel of leading global endocrinologists regarding current and future best practice treatment strategies for managing Type I and Type II diabetes. Edited By: Larry Gassman
20220704 Empowering Us to Advocate for the Best Mental Health and Emotional Well Being Care Originally Aired July 4, 2022, on ACB Media
The world can be busy and it's often our own self-care that is the first overlooked. The medical field is often more a business; knowing how to ask the right questions and advocate for ourselves is a learned and much needed skill set.
Facilitated by Pam Shaw
Edited By: Jenine Stanley
20220703 Unravelling the Medicare Tangle Originally Aired July 3, 2022, on ACB Media Lori Scharff ACB's Medicare expert, provided attendees with the information one would need to better understand the maze that is the Medicare program. Eligibility, benefits, gaps, and special plans are just a few of the areas that she covered. Edited By: Michael Moran
20220623 Adaptive Sports GET UP, GET MOVING, and Make Life Fun! Originally Aired June 23, 2022, on ACB Media
Want to get active and are not sure what exciting things are out there, or how you can re-engage in your favorite game or activity after sight loss? Attendees heard from our team on how we could help you get back into the action! STRIVE4YOU assisted attendees in this virtual workshop as they explored all of the exciting recreational and sporting activities that are available for the Visually Impaired/Blind. Together they took a look at simple adaptations to make your leisure, recreation, and fitness activities more inclusive. Whether you're a parent, college student, senior or a disabled veteran there is so much out there to get you off the couch living life to its fullest, and you might accidently get healthier both physically and mentally in the process!
Edited By: Brian McCallen
~~So, You Want to Pick the Right Therapist? Will he or she be affirming of blindness, LGBTQ+ status or gender identity: Attendees learned from both blind and sighted therapists’ tips to help you choose the right professional to meet your needs. Presenters: ♠ Jessica Kell, certified family therapist, Baltimore, MD ♠ Ronald Miner Hughes, MSW, DCSW, LCSW, ACHS, MAC, DD, Psychotherapy and Hypnotherapy Specialist, Retired Director of Clinical Healthcare and Employee Assistance, Manchester, CT
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 22~~
~~Living Life to the Fullest with Diabetes: ACBDA has several members who served on a panel and shared about life with diabetes and things they have found to be helpful in their journey.
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 21~~
~~Diabetes and Advocacy 101: Attendees learned what ACB and ACBDA have done to promote advocacy in affordable medication and accessible durable medical equipment for those with diabetes. Attendees also gained more information about advocating for yourself and being your advocate with medical teams. Speakers: ♣ Clark Rachfal, ACB, Director of Advocacy & Governmental Affairs ♣ Chris Gray, ACBDA President
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 21~~
~~BPI Self Defense: BPI partnered with Strive4you to start us on the road of learning self-defense techniques. With their adaptive program, we learned the basics of strengthening our core and using well-honed skills that inspired us to get up and get moving with confidence and the ability to defend ourselves. Presenters: ♥ Ricky Jones, Co-executive Director, Strive4you, Nashville, TN ♥ Christy Ray, Co-Executive Director, Strive4you, Nashville, TN
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 20~~
~~Safety and Fall Prevention Prescription Drug labeling - Part 1: Fall prevention, Information is the key! Seniors with vision loss are at heightened risk of falls and other types of accidents. Safety expert Cecilia Warren helped us learn to address this problem and improve your quality of life. ♣ Cecilia Warren, Director, Emergency Preparedness Policy, Maryland Department of Disabilities, Baltimore, MD
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 19 Part 2: Accessible Drug Labeling and Medication Management for the Blind and Low Vision Community: The lack of accessible drug labeling and assistance with medication are problems that threatens lives and causes significant medical issues. If you struggle with the availability of accessible drug labeling or the need for help with medication management, attendees listened to the founders of Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind. You just may find that solutions are here! Medication Management for the Blind and Low Vision Community
Speakers: ♣ Dr. Alex Cohen, PhD, Chief Marketing & Accessibility Officer at Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind ♣ Andy Burstein, Chief Executive Officer at Accessible Pharmacy Services for the Blind, Philadelphia, PA
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 19~~
~~An Evening With ACB: Panel on Increasing Financial Literacy: Financial issues touch every aspect of our lives. The more we can learn about successfully navigating this whole area of interest, the more successful we can become in handling various financial matters that contribute to our independence. Although we could never hope to fully handle this subject in one panel session, we presented a sampling of topics we believe will be of interest and assistance to convention attendees. Panelists: ♦ Brian Charlson, Watertown, MA, an expert in the area of credit through his work on the Structured Negotiation on Credit Report Accessibility, shared this expertise with us and presented a discussion of the importance of knowing your credit status, and how to obtain and utilize your free and accessible credit reports from the three major credit bureaus. All financial literacy starts with credit, and Brian will tell us just what we need to know about it to make it work for us. ♦ Judy Dixon, Arlington VA, our resident expert in iOS-related photography, stretched our comfort zones by demonstrating the techniques she uses to allow a totally blind person to deposit a check into her bank account using only her iPhone. ♦ Kelly Ford, a brilliant trainer, answer man, and problem solver from Microsoft's Enterprise Disability Answer Desk, Madison, WI, is adept at all things Excel. Kelly shared information on pivot tables and data types, two awesome and exciting features that are accessible and will allow us to track our expenses and get stock-related information using some cool Excel techniques.
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 21~~
~~Diabetes Education 101: Thriving and living with diabetes: Living with diabetes is tough and living with vision loss adds to the challenge. Presenters: ♥ Brenda Jagatic, BScN, RN, Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist, Marquette, MI ♥ Lisa Golden, MA.Ed.HD, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, Crowley, TX
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 19~~
~~Diabetes Education 101 - Diabetes Self-Management: This session reviewed the Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists’ described 7 self-care behaviors and how they can help you live a healthy and abundant life. This included monitoring, taking medication, problem solving, healthy coping and reducing risks. Speakers: ♠ Brenda Jagatic, BScN, RN, Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist, Marquette, MI ♠ Lisa Golden, MA.Ed.HD, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, Crowley, TX
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 19~~
GDB alumni and anyone was interested in Guide Dogs for the Blind and guide-dog access: Attendees joined GDB for an update on the DOT Air Carriers Access Act Service, animal Ruling with national experts. including: ◘ Mr. Ray Prentice (Alaska Airline Accessibility Director) ◘ Mr. Eric Lipp (CEO of Opendoors Organization) What is the ‘Ruling’ in brief? How is the implementation going? Who can you give feedback to and how? Plus creative efforts to make the process more usable. This concern has weighed on many Guide Dog handlers. Attendees joined GDB to shape the future of air travel for guide-dog teams. Questions were sent to Rabih Dow, GDB Director of Outreach and Advocacy in advance at: RDow@guidedogs.com. -
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 16
~~BITS/SASI: Do You Hear What I Hear: Are you getting the most from your hearing devices? Have you ever wondered if any hearing aids will work with other technology such as your iPhone? Attendees enjoyed an informative presentation during which two audiologists and a Hearing Care Professional served as panelists as they addressed the issues and answered questions. Presenters: • Dr. Carol Hamer, Audiologist, Hellen Keller National Center, Sands Point, NY • Jacob Smith, Hearing Instrument Dispenser, Oak Lawn, IL • Dr. Nancy Mascia, Audiologist, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, Birmingham, AL
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 17~~
~~Navigating the Health Care System as an Adult with Vision Loss: ACB member and author of “Navigating Health Care When All They Can See is That You Can’t” and “When Your Ears Can’t Help You See” Deborah Kendrick and attorney Meredith Weaver discussed the challenges of weaving your way through the health care system. ○ Deborah Kendrick, author, Cincinnati, OH ○ Meredith Weaver, Staff Attorney, Disability Rights Advocates, Berkeley, CA Co-Sponsored by: AAVL and ACB Advocacy Services Committee
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 19~~
~~SASI presents Employment Strategies for those with a Dual Sensory Loss: Sight and Sound Impaired (SASI) Committee presented a panel of people who have a dual sensory loss of hearing and vision loss. The panel discussed how they used reasonable accommodations, communication techniques, assistive technology and other strategies to gain and maintain employment. Panelists: ♠ Scott Davert, Coordinator of Technology Research and Innovation Center for the Helen Keller National Center, Sands Point, NY ♠ Megan Conway, Research and Accessibility Specialist, Helen Keller National Center, Healdsburg, CA ♠ Kerry Thompson, Senior Officer for Communications, Inclusion, & Analytics, Disability Rights Fund, Boston, MA ♠ Brian Horst, Child Support Program Administrator, Division of Child Support, Washington, DC
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 18~~
~~Diabetes and Fitness 101: Attendees joined us to learn about the importance of exercise and how it plays a role with managing diabetes. Speakers: ♥ Karen Kemmis, PT, RN, DPT, Syracuse, NY ♥ Steve Bauer, CCA Board Member, Culver, CA
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 20~~
The staff from The Seeing Eye were joined by attendees for a fun and informative discussion on The Seeing Eye’s program, what it’s like to partner with a dog, and an update on what we’ve been up to lately. Mots questions were submitted to; whitec@seeingeye.org in advance. - Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 16
~~Diabetes and Nutrition 101: The speakers discussed current nutrition trends & their impact on diabetes.They discussed challenges to healthy eating such as sick days, holidays, traveling & dining out. We also provided tips for healthy grocery shopping and meal planning. Presenters: ♦ Marjorie Debruyne, RD, CDCES, Bloomington, IN ♦ Jeff Bishop, ACBDA Board Member, Kirkland, WA
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 20~~
~~Attendees joined ACB Leaders and our Health Hero partners as we officially kicked off the Get Up and Get Moving Campaign. The campaign raises awareness on the critical issues for people who are blind and visually impaired seeking to take back their health as we all come out of the pandemic. Attendees learned how they can be a part of this three-year campaign and take the Get Up and Get Moving Challenge.
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 17~~
~~Leading the festivities this year are Pam Shaw, Joy Restoration Coach, Philadelphia, PA and Debbie Hazelton, ACB Radio Program Director, Dothan, AL. Share in the joy, inspiration & empowerment these two phenomenal women bring with them wherever they go!
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 17~~
~~Adaptive Sports, an Active Body = A Healthy Mind: BPI partnered with Strive4you to inspire and teach us about such adapted sports as Bowling Bonanza; Star Spangle Goalball and Southern Classic Kickball. Let's all get up and get moving together! Presenters: ♥ Ricky Jones, Co-Executive Director, Strive4you, Nashville, TN ♥ Christy Ray, Co-Executive Director, Strive4you, Nashville, TN
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 20~~
~~Non-Traditional Blind Sports: From skateboarding to darts to hunting and fishing, attendees talked with a panel of sports and recreation enthusiasts about some unique activities not traditionally participated in by the blind and visually impaired. Panel: ♥ Curtis Ruttle, Founder, Alt Route Project, Calgary, Alberta, Canada ♥ Matt Janz, Founder, Skate Bats, Calgary, Alberta, Canada ♥ Tom Fisher, Vice President of North American Association of Blind Sportsmen (NAABS), Gig Harbor, WA ♥ Dr. Andre Watson, PsyD, Clinical Psychologist, Delaware County, PA Sponsored by: ACB Next Gen
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 19~~
~~Tat’s What Friends are For: Are you having a problem handling low vision? What’s been your journey with low vision? We discussed the journey of low vision, and shared experiences, offered encouragement and strategies. Come join our low vision community as we support one another. Sponsored by CCLVI
- Recorded during the 2021 ACB National Convention on July 21~~