August Construction Update

The Western Blind Rehabilitation Center (WBRC) continues to watch the construction progress of B-500, the highly anticipated new home of the Polytrauma and Blind Rehabilitation services on the Palo Alto VAPAHCS Campus.  Some of the building's features will include private bedrooms and bathrooms for inpatients, 3-shared courtyards, a greenhouse, golf-putting green, bocce ball court, and half basketball court. 

Photo: B-500 as seen from front walkway area.

At 174,000 square feet, this new facility will be the largest consolidated rehabilitation center in the VA nationwide.  It will include 24 beds for the polytrauma program, 32 beds for the blind rehabilitation program, and 12 beds for the polytrauma transitional rehabilitation program.  Currently construction crews are nearing completion of both the interior and exterior of the building, with much of the landscaping installed.

Photo: Front Entrance of B-500 with landscaping and lighting.

The center will also have an outpatient physical therapy and occupational therapy clinic, and outpatient physical medicine and rehabilitation clinic, and clinical programs for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom Veterans.  Construction is anticipated to be 100% complete shortly, with the building becoming operational sometime next year.


CLICK HERE to view additional construction pictures


CLICK HERE for construction updates


CLICK HERE to read the project's news release

Healthy Teaching Kitchen Visits WBRC

Photo: Stock photograph of Zucchini displayed in a burlap bag

WBRC's Matter of Balance group was honored this week when the VAPAHCS 'Healthy Teaching Kitchen' provided a private cooking demonstration to the group at the center.  The Healthy Teaching Kitchen is a program run through the Palo Alto VA by the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Coordinator and provides live healthy cooking demonstration events to promote healthy nutrition.


During the demonstration WBRC Matter of Balance students observed the preparation and cooking of two healthy Zucchini recipes.  They asked questions and tasted samples of the completed recipes.  The Healthy Teaching Kitchen staff also educated participates about some helpful kitchen gadgets, a vegetable spiralizer and a grate and slice set, that promote safe preparation of the needed ingredients.

Photo: A sample of a Vegetable Spiralizer

The vegetable spiralizer comes in many styles, and turns firm vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, cucumbers, etc. into vegetable noodles which can be used instead of pasta in many recipes.  CLICK HERE to learn more. 

Photo: A sample of the grate and slice set

The grate and slice set is composed of a non-slip container with 4 'lids' or cutting surfaces with a coarse grater, a medium grater, a straight slicer, and a julienne slicer.  A hand guard prevents injury.  CLICK HERE to learn more.


Please see below for the two Zucchini Recipes demonstrated by the Healthy Teaching Kitchen:


Zucchini Mint Salad
Servings per Recipe: 6-8


Ingredients

4 small or 3 medium zucchinis

3 to 4 sprigs of mint

1 lemon

About 2 Tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

*Optional 1 container of plain Greek yogurt

Directions

Clean zucchinis and pat them dry. Trim and slice thinly and evenly as possible.  Layer zucchini slices onto a serving platter.

Take mint leaves off their stems and stack in a layer.  Roll leaves lengthwise into a cigarette shape and cut into thin ribbons. Set aside.

Use a zester to zest the lemon over the zucchini.  Once you have most of the zest off the lemon, cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the zucchini.

Drizzle zucchini with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.  Top the entire salad with the mint.

Nutritional Information

*Nutrition information does not include Greek Yogurt

Calories : 63

Carbohydrates: 7

Fat: 3

Protein: 3

Sodium: 106 mg

Sugar: 4

_________________________________________________

Zucchini Pasta Primavera

Servings per Recipe: 4

Ingredient

4 large zucchini

1 cup cherry tomatoes

¼ cup basil

1 cup spinach

2 cloves of garlic

¼ cup parmesan cheese, shredded

¼ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 ½ TBSP Olive Oil

Directions

Using a shredder or a vegetable noodle maker cut up the zucchini into long noodle like strands and set aside, then slice cherry tomatoes in half, set to the side.  Now gather basil and spinach and coarsely chop and set to the side. Finally chop or crush garlic and leave on the cutting board.


Next heat olive oil in a frying pan on medium heat, once warm add garlic and tomatoes until fragrant.  Next add the zucchini noodles and toss items together for 2-3 minutes.  Once noodles are tender, remove from heat and place in a serving bowl. Toss with spinach, basil, and cheeses and then serve. 


Nutrition Information
Calories: 149

Carbohydrates: 13

Fat: 8g

Protein: 9g

Sodium: 158mg

Sugar: 6

Tips for Eating More Fruits and Vegetables

#1: Choose a day of the week to have only vegetables like a Meatless Monday, choose beans, edamame, or other legumes for the protein.

#2: Vegetables are pretty versatile, they really can be cooked in many ways, try grilling next.

#3: Add more vegetables and fruits to dishes to fill them up and make the dish look large without increasing the calories. You can also be sneaky by adding vegetables to dishes like burgers and pastas

#4: Add protein and flavor with items such as plain, non-fat yogurt to fruits and vegetables.

July Construction Update

Photo: Art installation in front of B-500

WBRC continues to watch the construction progress of B-500, the highly anticipated new home of the Polytrauma and Blind Rehabilitation services on the Palo Alto VAPAHCS Campus.  Some of the building's features will include private bedrooms and bathrooms for inpatients, 3 large shared courtyards, a 'green' living roof, a greenhouse, and solar panels on the roof.

Photo: Rendering of front of B500.

At 174,000 square feet, this new facility is the largest consolidated rehabilitation center in the VA and will include 24 beds for the polytrauma program, 32 beds for the blind rehabilitation program, and 12 beds for the polytrauma transitional rehabilitation program.  Currently construction crews are nearing completion of both the interior and exterior of the building.

Photo: Front of B500 in July 2016

The center will also have an outpatient physical therapy and occupational therapy clinic, an outpatient physical medicine and rehabilitation clinic, and clinical programs for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom Veterans.  Construction is anticipated to be 100% complete shortly, with the building becoming operational within a year.

CLICK HERE to view additional construction pictures


CLICK HERE for construction updates


CLICK HERE to read the project's news release

WBRC Outreach: Palo Alto VIST Meeting

Photo: Stock photograph of a Matter of Balance group discussion

Last Month WBRC was honored to be invited to present to the Palo Alto Visual Impairment Services Team Coordinator's monthly meeting at the Palo Alto Hospital Campus.  Mrs. Summer Beasley, MA COMS, WBRC Blind Rehabilitation Specialist and Matter of Balance Coach, presented to the group, consisting of the VIST Coordinator and Veterans with vision loss and their families and caregivers.  The WBRC's new Matter of Balance program was reviewed and the group participated in some of the Matter of Balance exercises.


In 2015 the WBRC piloted a new fall prevention program called Matter of Balance.  Matter of Balance is a nationwide, evidence based, fall prevention program for older adults.  It addresses the fear of falling, fall prevention measures, and simple exercises to promote health and balance.


The program was developed through research by the Roybal Center for Enhancement of Late-Life Function at Boston University.  Matter of Balance is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase the activity levels of older adults who have concerns about falls.


The WBRC's program is the first in the VA and the first Blind Rehabilitation Center to adopt this program.  It is also the only Matter of Balance program that is offered as inpatient treatment for Veterans with visual impairment.  The program runs for 4 weeks and is group based with up to six Veterans and up to three Matter of Balance Coaches.


Some Program Information:

• Matter of Balance group discussion classes take place twice per week.
• Veterans have the opportunity for one-on-one assessment and training options in additional skill areas such as Orientation and Mobility, Living Skills, and Visual Skills.
• Matter of Balance daily group exercise sessions start in week two.
• Additional group educational sessions occur on My HealtheVet and devices such as use of a reacher, etc.
• Matter of Balance group community outings provide the opportunity to apply newly learned skills.
• Veterans may also participate in regularly scheduled WBRC Recreation Therapy activities, as well as Student Forum and Relaxation Group.
• Access to Skills Nursing Care 24 hours per day.

Interested Veterans with vision loss apply to the program by talking to their Visual Impairment Services Team (VIST) Coordinator about being referred to this WBRC specialty program, or can contact the WBRC at (650) 614-9952 to learn about Matter of Balance or future session dates.


If you would like to see if there is a local Matter of Balance session meeting near you, use this link to look up Master Trainers by state: http://www.mainhealth.org/mh_body.cfm?id=5159


If you are aware of an event which would be a good opportunity for WBRC outreach or would like WBRC to come and speak to your group, please contact Lindsay Hass, WBRC Blind Rehabilitation Specialist and Communication Committee Co-Chair at Lindsay.hass@va.gov or call the main WBRC line at (650) 614-9952 to make a request.

Happy 4th of July

Photo: An American Flag with fireworks behind

As we celebrate our liberties, freedoms, and the many things we have to be thankful for this July, we remember and support those who have protected them. The Western Blind Rehabilitation Center (WBRC) would like to thank all Veterans and Active Duty Service Members for your service. Have a happy and safe 4^th of July Holiday.


The WBRC will be closed for business on Monday July 4^th in observance of the Holiday.


The WBRC RN Station may be reached by calling: (650) 493-500 then select 1, then 2, then enter 24623 -or- 24823.


You may also leave a message at the WBRC Direct Line at: (650) 614-9952.


The Western Blind Rehabilitation Center (WBRC) is a 27-bed residential facility located at the Menlo Park Division of the VA Palo Alto Health Care System.  Approximately two hundred veterans and active duty service members of all ages participate in the program each year.  More than three quarters have usable vision for which specialized treatment is provided.  Adjusting to and managing visual impairment is the major objective of the program.  If you are in the area and are interested in a site visit, please call (650) 614-9952 to make arrangements.


CLICK HERE to learn more about WBRC

WBRC Outreach: San Francisco VA VIST Team Meeting

Image: Matter of Balance Logo

On June 13th WBRC was honored to be invited to present to the Visual Impairment Services Team monthly meeting at the San Francisco VA Hospital Campus.  Mrs. Summer Beasley, MA COMS, WBRC Blind Rehabilitation Specialist presented to the group, consisting of the VIST Coordinator, Blind Rehabilitation staff members, a Veteran representative, as well several service Chiefs including Optometry, Audiology, Occupational Therapy, Prosthetics, and Rehabilitative Nursing about the WBRC's Matter of Balance Program.

In 2015 the WBRC piloted a new fall prevention program called Matter of  Balance.  Matter of Balance is a nationwide, evidence based fall prevention program for older adults.  It addresses the fear of falling, fall prevention measures, and simple exercises to promote health and balance.

The program was developed through research by the Roybal Center for Enhancement of Late-Life Function at Boston University.  Matter of Balance is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase the activity levels of older adults who have concerns about falls.

The WBRC is the first VA and first Blind Rehabilitation Center to adopt this program.  It is also the only Matter of Balance program that is offered as inpatient treatment for Veterans with visual impairment.  The program runs for four weeks and is group based with up to six Veterans and up to three Matter of Balance Coaches.

Some information about the program:

• Matter of Balance group classes take place twice a week.
• Veterans have the opportunity for one-on-one assessment and training options in additional skill areas such as Orientation & Mobility, Living Skills, and Visual Skills.
• Matter of Balance daily group exercise sessions starting in week two.
• Additional group educational sessions on MyHealtheVet and devices such as use of a grabber/reacher (as many falls involve reaching for objects).
• Matter of Balance group Community Outings provide the opportunity to apply newly learned skills. 
• Veterans may also participate in regularly scheduled WBRC Recreation Therapy activities, as well as the Student Forum and the Relaxation Group.
• Access to skilled nursing care 24 hours per day.

Interested Veterans with Vision Loss apply to the program by talking to their Visual Impairment Services Team (VIST) Coordinator about being referred to this specialty program, or can contact the WBRC at (650) 614-9952 to learn about Matter of Balance or future session dates.

If you would like to see if there is a local Matter of Balance session meeting near you, use this link to look up Master Trainers by state: http://www.mainehealth.org/mh_body.cfm?id=5195

If you are aware of an event which would be a good opportunity for WBRC Outreach or would like WBRC to come speak to your group, please contact Lindsay Hass, WBRC Blind Rehabilitation Specialist and WBRC Communications Committee Co-Chair at Lindsay.hass@va.gov or call the main WBRC line at (650) 614-9952 to make a request.

 

NCEFT Features Veteran in New Video

Video: NCEFT features Veteran in new video. 

Click on the image above to play

The National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy (NCEFT) in Woodside, CA has long been a resource for Veterans, including those attending the Western Blind Rehabilitation Center.  Founded in 1971, the NCEFT has worked with children, adults, and Veterans with a variety of disabilities providing a wide range of equine activities.  WBRC Recreation Therapy department has developed a strong relationship with NCEFT, participating with their Veterans Program on a regular basis.

The NCEFT Veteran's program offers Active Duty Service Members and Veterans the opportunity to participate in services at no cost.  The program encourages physical and cognitive rehabilitation, providing Veterans with a safe environment in which to regain their independence, confidence, and strength.  This program is funded entirely by donations. 

Programs including Hippotherapy, a treatment in which equine movement is used as part of a coordinated intervention program to reach functional goals in the areas of physical, occupational, and speech-language therapy.  Adaptive riding, which emphasizes the acquisition of riding and horsemanship skills, in an effort to achieve physical, emotional, and cognitive goals.  And adaptive horsemanship, where students are organized into small groups lessons with other Veterans.

CLICK HERE to learn more about the WBRC Recreation Therapy Program

CLICK HERE to learn more about NCEFT

US Association of Blind Athletes Hosts Annual Tandem Cycling Development Camp

Photo: The WBRC Tandem Cycling Program participants on a ride.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The United States Association of Blind Athletes is hosted its annual Tandem Cycling Development Camp in early May of 2016.

There were 16 pilots and stokers from all over the country training to improve their bike handling skills and racing strategies, one of whom was a WBRC Alumni.  The WBRC Recreation Therapy Department has a thriving Tandem Cycling Program at the Menlo Park Center every Thursday and the staff was thrilled to hear of one of our former participants taking part of the Cycling Development Camp.

CLICK HERE for a link to the fox21news.com story including Video

CLICK HERE to learn more about the United States Association of Blind Athletes

CLICK HERE to learn more about the WBRC Recreation Therapy Program

WBRC Announces CNVR Program Coordinator

Photo: Katherine Taylor, WBRC CNVR Coordinator

WBRC is proud to announce that Katherine Taylor has accepted the position of Comprehensive Neurological Vision Rehabilitation (CNVR) Program Coordinator.  Ms. Taylor has been a Visual Skills Blind Rehabilitation Specialist at the WBRC since November of 2012, and she is also a certified Brian Injury Specialist and Licensed Speech Pathologist.  Ms. Taylor has a Master’s Degree from California State University Hayward (East Bay) in Speech Pathology and Audiology, and she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at University California, Berkeley.  She is accredited by ACVREP as Certified Low Vision Therapist.  Congratulations Katie!

WBRC Outreach: Jewish Community Center of San Francisco

Photo: Craig Echhardt, Palo Alto VIST Coordinator,
mans the WBRC outreach booth at the JCCSF

By Charity Son, WBRC Blind Rehabilitation Specialist


On April 7th, two WBRC staff members participated in the Art of Aging Gracefully event at the Jewish Community Center - San Francisco (JCCSF). Visual Skills instructor Charity Son, CVRT, and VIST Coordinator Craig Eckhardt, CVRT, COMS, manned a booth with low vision devices and information, all geared towards giving the senior population independent access to healthy options. These ranged from kitchen safety items to enable healthy meal preparation to computer access technology devices for accessing health information and fitness trackers.


The booth had a steady stream of visitors all day. Patrons were particularly interested information on the Matter of Balance program. The Matter of Balance program was adopted by the WBRC and adapted for instruction to our Veterans with low vision. Three Veterans were served and took information on the WBRC Matter of Balance program, while civilian patrons were motivated to take literature on the Matter of Balance program in order to participate through their local agencies [fitness centers, senior/community centers, hospitals]. The WBRC was proud to participate in the event and to help patrons age gracefully.


If you are aware of an event which would be a good opportunity for WBRC Outreach or would like WBRC to come speak to your group, please contact Lindsay Hass, WBRC Blind Rehabilitation Specialist and WBRC Communications Committee Co-Chair, at Lindsay.hass@va.gov or call the main WBRC line at (650) 614-9952 to make a request.

WBRC Alumnus Update: Terry Kebbel

Photo: WBRC Alumnus Terry (left) with wife (right)

WBRC Recently received a letter and photo from Alumnus Terry Kebbel, which he graciously agreed could be shared here on the WBRC blog.  Thanks Terry!

Thank you Western Blind Rehab Center for the training I received in November.  I was able to navigate the trail at Bandelier National Park using a two cane technique that Summer [My WBRC Orientation and Mobility Specialist] taught me. It was a 1 ½ mile trek with an increased elevation and irregular stone steps. My sighted guide and I were able to travel quite easily.

Photo description: I am on the left side of a wooden ladder that leads to a cave dwelling at Bandelier Park. My wife, Maryellen, is to the right of the ladder.

http://www.nps.gov/band/contacts.htm

Terry also contributes to www.blindnotalone.com

WBRC Staff Peer Review APH Publication

Image: APH Information about a new web based publication
for Orientation and Mobility Specialists

WBRC would like to congratulate two of it's staff members for recently peer reviewing a new publication through the American Printing House for the Blind, Inc.  John Kingston, WBRC Orientation and Mobility Department Supervisor, and Anthony Chambers, WBRC CNVR Program Coordinator were a part of the team which peer reviewed the APH's new publication 'Orientation and Mobility for Wheelchair Users With Visual Impairment or Blindness'.  The web-based publication is intended to help Orientation and Mobility Instructors learn how to train students who are wheelchair users to travel safely and effectively. 


Mr. Kingston and Mr. Chambers were excellent choices for peer reviewers due to their experience with the WBRC's Power Mobility Program which trains participants who are medically indicated to use Power Mobility Devices such as Power Wheelchairs and Power Scooters.  This program focuses on safe and independent use of these devices in a variety of travel environments in which the participant plans to travel.  Travel training environments could include indoor, campus, residential, business, urban, rural, as well as public transportation use.  Participants work one-on-one with a WBRC Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Specialist and must demonstrate consistent application of O&M power mobility safety recommendations prior to device issuance.  The average length of stay for the Power Mobility Program is four weeks.

Congratulations John and Tony!



CLICK HERE to view information about this publication on the APH website


The Western Blind Rehabilitation Center (WBRC) is a 27-bed residential facility located at the Menlo Park Division of the VA Palo Alto Health Care System.  Approximately two hundred veterans and active duty service members of all ages participate in the program each year.  More than three quarters have usable vision for which specialized treatment is provided.  Adjusting to and managing visual impairment is the major objective of the program.  If you are in the area and are interested in a site visit, please call (650) 614-9952 to make arrangements.

CLICKHERE to learn more about the WBRC

WBRC Now Accepting Applications for Upcoming 'Matter Of Balance Program' Sessions

Photo: The Veterans and Staff who participated in the WBRC's 'Pilot' MOB Program

By: John Kingston, COMS, WBRC Orientation and Mobility Department Supervisor

In 2015 the WBRC  piloted a new fall prevention program called Matter of  Balance.  Matter of Balance is a nationwide, evidence based fall prevention program for older adults.  It addresses the fear of falling, fall prevention measures, and simple exercises to promote health and balance. 

The program was developed through research by the Roybal Center for Enhancement of Late-Life Function at Boston University.  Matter of Balance is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase the activity levels of older adults who have concerns about falls.

 The WBRC is the first VA and first Blind Rehabilitation Center to adopt this program.  It is also the only Matter of Balance program that is offered as inpatient treatment for Veterans with visual impairment.  The program runs for four weeks and is group based with up to six Veterans and up to three Matter of Balance Coaches. 

Some information about the program:

• Matter of Balance group classes take place twice a week.

• Veterans have the opportunity for one-on-one assessment and training options in additional skill areas such as Orientation & Mobility, Living Skills, and Visual Skills.

• Matter of Balance daily group exercise sessions start in week two.

• Additional group educational sessions on MyHealtheVet and devices such as use of a grabber/reacher (as many falls involve reaching for objects).

• Matter of Balance group Community Outings provide the opportunity to apply newly learned skills. 

• Veterans may also participate in regularly scheduled WBRC Recreation Therapy activities, as well as the Student Forum and the Relaxation Group.

• Access to skilled nursing care 24 hours per day.

An additional Matter of Balance Session was held in the Beginning of 2016 with similar results.  The Veterans who graduated from the Matter of Balance program encouraged the WBRC to keep this program going for other Veterans.  Participants rated the program highly.   

A few quotes from the first WBRC Matter of Balance participants:

“I feel more comfortable talking about falls with my family. More aware of what I am doing and how I am doing it…”

“I am doing the seated marching before standing up to limber me up to prevent  falling”

“I feel better informed on the use of my walker…and on the use and value of the exercises involved in the program”

WBRC’s next scheduled Matter of Balance sessions are

April 4th through April 29th, 2016 & July 11th through August 5th, 2016.

Talk to your Visual Impairment Services Team (VIST) Coordinator about being referred to this specialty program, or contact the WBRC at (650) 614-9952 to learn about future Matter of Balance session dates.

CLICK HERE to learn more about the WBRC

CLICK HERE to check for a Matter of Balance session meeting near you & to look up Master Trainers by state

WBRC FY15 Annual Review Mails Out

Photo: Nearly 200 FY 15 WBRC Reviews ready to mail

The Western Blind Rehabilitation Center is proudly mailing out the Annual 'Review' Newsletter for Fiscal Year 2015 to WBRC Alum who attended between October 1, 2014 to present.  The WBRC Review is published annually for stakeholders including former and current students, prospective students, family and caregivers, VA staff and volunteers, and anyone interested in learning about low vision and blind rehabilitation services available to Veterans and Active Duty Service Members through the VA Palo Alto Health Care System.  

If you are an Alumni who did not attend the WBRC from October 1, 2014 to present -OR- another stakeholder and would like a print copy mailed to you, please send an e-mail with your mailing address to summer.beasley@va.gov.

A PDF and a Text Only version of the FY15 WBRC Review is also available via these links:

PDF Version
Text Only Version

VA Palo Alto Notes WBRC for Low Vision Month

Photo: Visual Skills Supervisor Dave Patten demonstrates use of a CCTV

The VA Palo Alto website recently recognized the WBRC for Low Vision Awareness month on their internet page, check out the article below:

Low vision affects millions of Americans every year. When glasses, contacts, or surgery doesn’t help, this is usually a sign of low vision. Many factors contribute to low vision, including eye diseases and health conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, diabetes, and glaucoma.

How do I know if I have low vision?
According to the National Eye Institute, if you suffer from any of the below symptoms even with glasses or contacts, you may be suffering from low vision.

• Recognizing the faces of family and friends
• Reading, cooking, sewing, or fixing things around the house
• Selecting and matching the color of your clothes
• Seeing clearly with the lights on or feeling like they are dimmer than normal
• Reading traffic signs or the names of stores

Where can I get help if I’m living with low vision?
VA Palo Alto Health Care System recognizes the importance of providing vision care and low vision rehabilitation care to Veterans. A regular visit to your Optometrist can help to detect any loss in vision.

For Veterans already experiencing low vision, the Western Blind Rehabilitation Center (WBRC), located at the VAPAHCS Menlo Park Division, is a 27-bed residential facility aimed at helping Veterans with low vision learn ways to adapt to vision loss and manage daily life.

Veterans can receive the necessary skills to Adjust to Sight Loss, or learn how to be more independent in their activities of daily living, computer skills, mobility, and other areas. There is even a program for Family Training.

The Western Blind Rehabilitation Center is an internationally recognized leader in comprehensive vision rehabilitation services by developing and implementing individualized treatment programs, education and research. It addresses the evolving needs of all of our visually impaired Veterans.

CLICK HERE Learn more about the WBRC and the services offered.