Publications

Selected Publications & Presentations

At Low Vision Works, we are proud to contribute to the advancement of low vision occupational therapy rehabilitation through research, interprofessional collaboration, public education, and national advocacy. Our team members actively present and publish on topics that matter most to our clients, families, and professionals in the field—highlighting innovation, independence, and holistic care. Below are selected works that showcase our commitment to improving quality of life for individuals with visual impairments.

🎧 Podcast Guest: Episode 21 — Low Vision Occupational Therapist Meagan Chapman

Show: The Charles Bonnet Syndrome Podcast
In this episode, Meagan Chapman, Occupational Therapist with Low Vision Works of Florida, joins the Charles Bonnet Syndrome Podcast to discuss the vital role of occupational therapy in low vision care. She shares her clinical experience working with individuals experiencing visual hallucinations and outlines how therapeutic strategies, environmental adaptations, and interdisciplinary collaboration support patients in achieving independence and confidence.
Listen on Apple Podcasts

📰 VET Protocol Retro Study

Publication: Abstract
By Low Vision Works
The Vandendooren Protocol is a home-based occupational therapy low vision rehabilitation program that demonstrated a statistically significant 47% average improvement in functional visual acuity among participants. Patients showed an average gain of two Snellen lines using standardized assessments in real-world home environments.
Read abstract

📰 Adaptations for Low Vision: Enhancing Safety and Independence

Publication: EuroTimes
By Cheryl Guttman Krader
This article highlights practical environmental adaptations to assist individuals with low vision. It emphasizes the role of occupational therapists in implementing strategies such as increasing contrast in home environments, utilizing tactile labels, and optimizing lighting to improve safety and daily functioning. The piece advocates for a collaborative approach among ophthalmologists and rehabilitation specialists to support patients' independence.
Read article

📰 Enhancing Vision and Independence: Using Occupational Therapy to Maximize IMT Outcomes

Publication: OT Practice (AOTA)
By Vanessa Carmody, OTD, OTR/L, CAPS
In this case study, Dr. Carmody shares the remarkable journey of a client with advanced macular degeneration who underwent rehabilitation after receiving the SING IMT (implantable miniature telescope). The article details therapy approaches used to train binocular vision, manage perceptual challenges, and restore meaningful activity participation—offering insights into the essential partnership between advanced technology and OT-led functional rehabilitation.
Read full article (PDF)

🎤 Proactive Fall Prevention Techniques for Those with Low Vision

National Presentation | Community Education Event
Presented by Vanessa Carmody, OTD, OTR/L, CAPS
This engaging presentation provides practical tools and clinical insights into fall prevention for older adults with low vision. Using the acronym VISION (Vigilance, Illuminate, Safety, Innovation, Organization, Network), Dr. Carmody empowers individuals and families to create safer environments, improve awareness, and support aging in place. The session integrates occupational therapy principles, environmental design, and adaptive strategies to reduce risk and promote confidence.
Watch presentation on YouTube

📰 Navigating Together: Seeing a Brighter Future with Innovative Rehabilitation

Publication: Macular Degeneration Association Newsletter
By Vanessa Carmody, OTD, OTR/L, CAPS
This article explores the power of collaborative and personalized low vision rehabilitation, emphasizing occupational therapy’s critical role within a multidisciplinary model. Dr. Carmody outlines how OTs support clients through adaptive strategies, assistive technology, emotional support, and home-based care—highlighting real-world program successes and evidence-based practice models that improve function, safety, and well-being.
Read full article (PDF)

📰 Eyes Wide Open: Reinventing a Visionary Business Model

Publication: Business Observer
By Mark Gordon
This profile chronicles the entrepreneurial journey of Michele Vandendooren, founder of Low Vision Works. Facing challenges with a hybrid-franchise expansion model, Vandendooren pivoted to a more centralized approach, establishing company-managed offices to deliver in-home vision rehabilitation services. Her innovative strategy underscores the importance of adaptability in healthcare entrepreneurship and her commitment to enhancing visual independence for individuals with low vision.
Read article

📰 Adaptations for Low Vision: Enhancing Safety and Independence

Publication: EuroTimes
By Cheryl Guttman Krader
This article highlights practical environmental adaptations to assist individuals with low vision. It emphasizes the role of occupational therapists in implementing strategies such as increasing contrast in home environments, utilizing tactile labels, and optimizing lighting to improve safety and daily functioning. The piece advocates for a collaborative approach among ophthalmologists and rehabilitation specialists to support patients' independence.
Read article

📰 Enhancing Vision and Independence: Using Occupational Therapy to Maximize IMT Outcomes

Publication: OT Practice (AOTA)
By Vanessa Carmody, OTD, OTR/L, CAPS
In this case study, Dr. Carmody shares the remarkable journey of a client with advanced macular degeneration who underwent rehabilitation after receiving the SING IMT (implantable miniature telescope). The article details therapy approaches used to train bi-ocular vision, manage perceptual challenges, and restore meaningful activity participation—offering insights into the essential partnership between advanced technology and OT-led functional rehabilitation.
Read full article (PDF)

🎤 Proactive Fall Prevention Techniques for Those with Low Vision - OT Perspective

National Presentation | Community Education Event
Presented by Vanessa Carmody, OTD, OTR/L, CAPS
This engaging presentation provides practical tools and clinical insights into fall prevention for older adults with low vision. Using the acronym VISION (Vigilance, Illuminate, Safety, Innovation, Organization, Network), Dr. Carmody empowers individuals and families to create safer environments, improve awareness, and support aging in place. The session integrates occupational therapy principles, environmental design, and adaptive strategies to reduce risk and promote confidence.
Watch presentation on YouTube

📰 Navigating Together: Seeing a Brighter Future with Innovative Collaboration

Publication: Macular Degeneration Association Newsletter
By Vanessa Carmody, OTD, OTR/L, CAPS
This article explores the power of collaborative and personalized low vision rehabilitation, emphasizing occupational therapy’s critical role within a multidisciplinary model. Dr. Carmody outlines how OTs support clients through adaptive strategies, assistive technology, emotional support, and home-based care—highlighting real-world program successes and evidence-based practice models that improve function, safety, and well-being.
Read full article (PDF)

📰 Eyes Wide Open: Reinventing a Visionary Business Model

Publication: Business Observer
By Mark Gordon
This profile chronicles the entrepreneurial journey of Michele Vandendooren, founder of Low Vision Works. Facing challenges with a hybrid-franchise expansion model, Vandendooren pivoted to a more centralized approach, establishing company-managed offices to deliver in-home vision rehabilitation services. Her innovative strategy underscores the importance of adaptability in healthcare entrepreneurship and her commitment to enhancing visual independence for individuals with low vision.
Read article