There is a silent crisis in New Hampshire – some 32,000 residents are living with profound vision loss. Roughly 70% of those we serve are over the age of 65 with this population expected to double over the next 10-15 years.
With an aging population comes the increase in age related eye diseases, like macular degeneration and glaucoma. The greatest barrier these individuals face is their inability to drive and the resulting loss of independence. In a recent survey of those we serve, more than 1/2 stated that access to transportation was their greatest need.
Quick trips to the grocery store or necessary medical appointments are something many of us take for granted. For those that have lost the ability to drive these otherwise routine needs become more of a challenge and very often go unmet. More than ever, the thousands of clients we serve, particularly seniors, living in a largely rural state need access to transportation. Often, clients are left feeling like a burden to their family and friends.
This is where you can help – Future In Sight relies on a solid foundation of volunteer support. We’re currently faced with a shortage of volunteer drivers. The areas of greatest need include Greater Seacoast, Manchester, Nashua and the rural areas of the Lakes Region as well as the North Country. If you have some time to spare to help others in your community, we would love to hear from you.
Your commitment will make a difference in the lives of the 4,000 individuals we serve, who live throughout all counties of the state. As one of our volunteer drivers stated; “Volunteering is good for all of us! It makes everyone happy.”