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Re: Alice in Wonderland Syndrome info
Thanks so much for the resources on this topic. I'll search around for the video. It will help as I move forward for an assessment. Thank you O&M Family!! Aloha Amy
There was a WONDERFUL webinar a few months ago on the Charles Bonnet Syndrome that might help you, Amy, if this is similar as Chris suggested.? Chris, can you find the link to that recording?? If not, I'll search for it.? It was SO helpful for how to help folks with these hallucinations and I would think would be helpful for folks who have distortions in their perceptions.
?
- Dona
?
?
Hi Amy,
?
A few general resources attached. Here is one summary list from one of the articles (in some ways, seems similar to Charles Bonnet Syndrome, e.g. "When symptoms of AIWS are transient and
not associated with any other pathology, reassurance that the symptoms themselves are not harmful may suffice.”)
?
AIWS is characterized by perceptual
distortions rather than hallucinations or
illusions and therefore needs to be
distinguished from schizophrenia spectrum
and other psychotic disorders
? When symptoms of AIWS are transient and
not associated with any other pathology,
reassurance that the symptoms themselves
are not harmful may suffice
? Based on the large spectrum of known
etiologies and the prospect of improved
outcome, I recommend auxiliary
investigations to address symptom
reoccurrence causing major distress or
dysfunction, with or without other
pathology
? In clinical cases, treatment needs to be
directed at underlying conditions
?
?
Another summary included sound distortion; important for consideration of discerning approaching vehicles, traffic surges, etc.?
?
While AIWS symptoms can vary from person to person and even episode to episode, these are some that are more commonly reported.
?
Size distortion, in which your body or objects around you appear to be sized differently from reality. These include:
Micropsia – things appear to grow smaller
Macropsia – things appear to grow larger
Perceptual distortion, in which the relation of objects near you appear to be different from reality. These include:
Pelopsia – things seem larger than they are because they appear to be closer
Telopsia – in which things seem smaller than they are because they appear to be farther away
Time distortion, when time appears to be moving faster or slower than reality.
Sound distortion, in which every sound, including those that are typically hushed, seems amplified and disruptive.
Loss of limb control or coordination, when you may feel as if your body is moving involuntarily and you’ve lost the ability to control how you move or walk.
—
Christopher J. Tabb, M.A., COMS
chris@...
Mobile:??512.660.2750
Image: ACVREP Digital Badge for COMS
Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail and?any attachments are intended only for the?individual or company to which it is?addressed and may contain proprietary?information which is intended only for?dissemination to its intended recipients. Further, this e-mail may also contain?Protected Health Information and related?materials whose usage & disclosure is?further governed by HIPAA//FERPA?and?other federal regulations. If you are not?the intended recipient, be advised that any?unauthorized use, disclosure, copying,?distribution, or the taking of any action in?reliance on the information contained?herein is strictly prohibited. If you have?received this e-mail and are not the?intended recipient, you are instructed to?notify the sender by reply e-mail and?destroy all copies of the original message.
?
?
Hi Friends,?
?
I just?received a referral request on this syndrome that is neurological and temporary. Any VI/O&M supports?
Aloha
Amy
|
Thank you for sharing that resource Melanie!
-- Sent from iPhone chris@... 512.660.2750
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Show quoted text
On May 6, 2025, at 9:19?AM, Melanie Hughes via groups.io <melanie.hughes@...> wrote:
? Hi Robyn,? I recalled looking for one of these in the past and found this form online, which I think covers the bases.?
https://www.physio-pedia.com/Falls_Risk_Assessment_Tool_(FRAT)
?
Melanie Hughes
|
Hi Robyn,? I recalled looking for one of these in the past and found this form online, which I think covers the bases.?
https://www.physio-pedia.com/Falls_Risk_Assessment_Tool_(FRAT)
?
Melanie Hughes
|
Re: Certified O&M instruction
I have seen an O&M in an internship sign an IEP (not allowed, at least in Texas).
?
I really hope the answer to your questions are all no. But what I’ve seen is that cane technique is being taught by those who are not O&Ms (and not very well at all – and leave out every other aspect of orientation and mobility when doing
it).
?
I am afraid that districts not aware are making exceptions that are not ethical or legal.
?
Julie
?
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Show quoted text
From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
On Behalf Of TRINA BOYD-PRATT via groups.io
Sent: Monday, May 5, 2025 4:42 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: [OandM] Certified O&M instruction
?
?
I was wondering how the shortage of Certified O&M Specialists is effecting the instruction for students who are blind/low vision across the USA?
Are states letting people work under a Temporary Teacher's license and covering O&M???
Do all university programs require people who are completing their O&M courses to take the ACVREP test then certification?? Or can they get their certification from a different
source?? If so, then is the person eligible to get their state license to teach in schools or would it just cover adults?
Are school districts letting the TVIs covering the O&M piece?? If so, is there a limit to the area that a TVI should be working with students?? Are they covering O&M lessons
out in the community, such as buses, street crossing, etc?
If so, did the school district administration give the okay with it and will the school district cover the liability if something occurs while out on a lesson?
Are Special Education Directors telling the TVIs to write down on the? IEP goals/objectives that can be covered by the TVI because the school district doesn't have a COMS or
can't find one to cover the services.? Are services being changed to fit the ability of the personnel who are in the district because the district can't find a COMS, say services within school and no instruction outside in the community?
How does an O&Mer provide virtual services when the student is in the community?? Who goes with the student as the instruction is happening?? Then is that person ultimately
responsible for the liability???
I am very concerned about the quantity and quality of O&M services that students are/and will be getting in the future.
Thanks to anyone who responds to my inquiries.
|
Re: Alice in Wonderland Syndrome info
There was a WONDERFUL webinar a few months ago on the Charles Bonnet Syndrome that might help you, Amy, if this is similar as Chris suggested.? Chris, can you find the link to that recording?? If not, I'll search for it.? It was SO helpful for how to help folks with these hallucinations and I would think would be helpful for folks who have distortions in their perceptions.
?
- Dona
On 05/05/2025 5:02 PM EDT Chris Tabb via groups.io <chris@...> wrote:
?
?
Hi Amy,
?
A few general resources attached. Here is one summary list from one of the articles (in some ways, seems similar to Charles Bonnet Syndrome, e.g. "When symptoms of AIWS are transient and
not associated with any other pathology, reassurance that the symptoms themselves are not harmful may suffice.”)
?
AIWS is characterized by perceptual
distortions rather than hallucinations or
illusions and therefore needs to be
distinguished from schizophrenia spectrum
and other psychotic disorders
? When symptoms of AIWS are transient and
not associated with any other pathology,
reassurance that the symptoms themselves
are not harmful may suffice
? Based on the large spectrum of known
etiologies and the prospect of improved
outcome, I recommend auxiliary
investigations to address symptom
reoccurrence causing major distress or
dysfunction, with or without other
pathology
? In clinical cases, treatment needs to be
directed at underlying conditions
?
?
Another summary included sound distortion; important for consideration of discerning approaching vehicles, traffic surges, etc.?
?
While AIWS symptoms can vary from person to person and even episode to episode, these are some that are more commonly reported.
?
Size distortion, in which your body or objects around you appear to be sized differently from reality. These include:
Micropsia – things appear to grow smaller
Macropsia – things appear to grow larger
Perceptual distortion, in which the relation of objects near you appear to be different from reality. These include:
Pelopsia – things seem larger than they are because they appear to be closer
Telopsia – in which things seem smaller than they are because they appear to be farther away
Time distortion, when time appears to be moving faster or slower than reality.
Sound distortion, in which every sound, including those that are typically hushed, seems amplified and disruptive.
Loss of limb control or coordination, when you may feel as if your body is moving involuntarily and you’ve lost the ability to control how you move or walk.
—
Christopher J. Tabb, M.A., COMS
chris@...
Mobile:??512.660.2750
Image: ACVREP Digital Badge for COMS
Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail and?any attachments are intended only for the?individual or company to which it is?addressed and may contain proprietary?information which is intended only for?dissemination to its intended recipients. Further, this e-mail may also contain?Protected Health Information and related?materials whose usage & disclosure is?further governed by HIPAA//FERPA?and?other federal regulations. If you are not?the intended recipient, be advised that any?unauthorized use, disclosure, copying,?distribution, or the taking of any action in?reliance on the information contained?herein is strictly prohibited. If you have?received this e-mail and are not the?intended recipient, you are instructed to?notify the sender by reply e-mail and?destroy all copies of the original message.
?
?
On May 5, 2025, at 2:44?PM, Amy Downard via groups.io <adownardtvi@...> wrote:
Hi Friends,?
?
I just?received a referral request on this syndrome that is neurological and temporary. Any VI/O&M supports?
Aloha
Amy
|
Certified O&M instruction
Hi,
I was wondering how the shortage of Certified O&M Specialists is effecting the instruction for students who are blind/low vision across the USA?
Are states letting people work under a Temporary Teacher's license and covering O&M???
Do all university programs require people who are completing their O&M courses to take the ACVREP test then certification?? Or can they get their certification from a different source?? If so, then is the person eligible to get their state license to teach in schools or would it just cover adults?
Are school districts letting the TVIs covering the O&M piece?? If so, is there a limit to the area that a TVI should be working with students?? Are they covering O&M lessons out in the community, such as buses, street crossing, etc?
If so, did the school district administration give the okay with it and will the school district cover the liability if something occurs while out on a lesson?
Are Special Education Directors telling the TVIs to write down on the? IEP goals/objectives that can be covered by the TVI because the school district doesn't have a COMS or can't find one to cover the services.? Are services being changed to fit the ability of the personnel who are in the district because the district can't find a COMS, say services within school and no instruction outside in the community?
How does an O&Mer provide virtual services when the student is in the community?? Who goes with the student as the instruction is happening?? Then is that person ultimately responsible for the liability???
I am very concerned about the quantity and quality of O&M services that students are/and will be getting in the future.
?
Thanks to anyone who responds to my inquiries.
Trina Boyd-Pratt, COMS
|
Re: Alice in Wonderland Syndrome info
Hi Amy,
A few general resources attached. Here is one summary list from one of the articles (in some ways, seems similar to Charles Bonnet Syndrome, e.g. "When symptoms of AIWS are transient and not associated with any other pathology, reassurance that the symptoms themselves are not harmful may suffice.”)
AIWS is characterized by perceptual distortions rather than hallucinations or illusions and therefore needs to be distinguished from schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders ? When symptoms of AIWS are transient and not associated with any other pathology, reassurance that the symptoms themselves are not harmful may suffice ? Based on the large spectrum of known etiologies and the prospect of improved outcome, I recommend auxiliary investigations to address symptom reoccurrence causing major distress or dysfunction, with or without other pathology ? In clinical cases, treatment needs to be directed at underlying conditions
Another summary included sound distortion; important for consideration of discerning approaching vehicles, traffic surges, etc.?
While AIWS symptoms can vary from person to person and even episode to episode, these are some that are more commonly reported.
Size distortion, in which your body or objects around you appear to be sized differently from reality. These include: Micropsia – things appear to grow smaller Macropsia – things appear to grow larger Perceptual distortion, in which the relation of objects near you appear to be different from reality. These include: Pelopsia – things seem larger than they are because they appear to be closer Telopsia – in which things seem smaller than they are because they appear to be farther away Time distortion, when time appears to be moving faster or slower than reality. Sound distortion, in which every sound, including those that are typically hushed, seems amplified and disruptive. Loss of limb control or coordination, when you may feel as if your body is moving involuntarily and you’ve lost the ability to control how you move or walk. |
—
Christopher J. Tabb, M.A., COMS
chris@...
Mobile:??512.660.2750
Image: ACVREP Digital Badge for COMSConfidentiality Notice: This e-mail and?any attachments are intended only for the?individual or company to which it is?addressed and may contain proprietary?information which is intended only for?dissemination to its intended recipients. Further, this e-mail may also contain?Protected Health Information and related?materials whose usage & disclosure is?further governed by HIPAA//FERPA?and?other federal regulations. If you are not?the intended recipient, be advised that any?unauthorized use, disclosure, copying,?distribution, or the taking of any action in?reliance on the information contained?herein is strictly prohibited. If you have?received this e-mail and are not the?intended recipient, you are instructed to?notify the sender by reply e-mail and?destroy all copies of the original message.
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
On May 5, 2025, at 2:44?PM, Amy Downard via groups.io <adownardtvi@...> wrote:
Hi Friends,?
I just?received a referral request on this syndrome that is neurological and temporary. Any VI/O&M supports?
Aloha
Amy
Alice in Wonderland Syndrome info
Hi Friends,?
I just?received a referral request on this syndrome that is neurological and temporary. Any VI/O&M supports? Aloha Amy
|
Hi Robyn,
Two possible thing that may be helpful…
First one is on the total other end of the age spectrum, though there may be some helpful resources in the mix,?
Second, more of a manual process in developing your own risk assessment tool, here are a couple of things to help in conceptually creating your model (neither are from the field of blindness and low vision, though you can generalize to your specific needs)... |
—Christopher J. Tabb, M.A., COMSchris@...Mobile:??512.660.2750
Image: ACVREP Digital Badge for COMSConfidentiality Notice: This e-mail and?any attachments are intended only for the?individual or company to which it is?addressed and may contain proprietary?information which is intended only for?dissemination to its intended recipients. Further, this e-mail may also contain?Protected Health Information and related?materials whose usage & disclosure is?further governed by HIPAA//FERPA?and?other federal regulations. If you are not?the intended recipient, be advised that any?unauthorized use, disclosure, copying,?distribution, or the taking of any action in?reliance on the information contained?herein is strictly prohibited. If you have?received this e-mail and are not the?intended recipient, you are instructed to?notify the sender by reply e-mail and?destroy all copies of the original message.
On May 5, 2025, at 1:58?PM, Robyn Casillas via groups.io <robynrene@...> wrote:
Reaching out to see if any of my colleagues have a risk assessment template, protocol or resources... specifically for fall risks- both for the individual and environmental. Prior, our PT conducted a fall risk assessment on an individual student-they may also step in and assess this student but I want to be prepared if asked. This student is a junior high school student with multiple disabilities, ambulatory, with both ocular and neurological based visual impairment. Poor visual attention, but easily visually redirected (when given a physical-visually based cue to direct visual attention).
?
Thanks,
Robyn
Reaching out to see if any of my colleagues have a risk assessment template, protocol or resources... specifically for fall risks- both for the individual and environmental. Prior, our PT conducted a fall risk assessment on an individual student-they may also step in and assess this student but I want to be prepared if asked. This student is a junior high school student with multiple disabilities, ambulatory, with both ocular and neurological based visual impairment. Poor visual attention, but easily visually redirected (when given a physical-visually based cue to direct visual attention).
?
Thanks,
Robyn
|
South Houston School OMS Need
Hey everyone,
?
This is such a powerfully strong community here and I am just in awe every step of the way on how you all support one another. I'm so grateful to be here!
I just learned about a full-time COMS need for the upcoming school year. This is for a public school district in the Southeast Houston area. Feel free to share out my contact info if you know anyone in the area.
?
Mandi Rivera
Blazer Jobs
813-540-9714
?
They've had a couple of other folks who were in the role that ran into some personal challenges and now they are in a pinch for some students.?
|
Re: changing guide animal perceptions
actually, there are two organizations in the U.S. now training guide and service mini horses.
?
1. Cheval Assistants and Leaders International
2. Equine Eyes -- by Holly Fisher
?
You can find them on facebook...
?
?
|
Re: changing guide animal perceptions
Good evening,
I find this post a very interesting as a dog guide user myself. A conversation that popped in my mind while reading both posts is there a couple of companies working on actually making a robotic guide dog. I am a familiar with the mini horses and have met one in person.
I have been doing a presentation in the United States when it conferences or ask on just getting individuals to understand the differences between all the dog guides schools and which each one has to offer. I always enjoy learning more about this topic.
Happy international dog guide day! Sharon Zenger and guide dog Reagan Sent from iPhone
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Show quoted text
On Apr 30, 2025, at 4:51?PM, Jen via groups.io <jenandnixon@...> wrote:
? Good evening: ? I don’t see this happening – although the “guide horse” is recognized within the American’s ADA, which is the only legislation that allows it. Guide horses are not readily accepted anywhere well. There is only one successful case I’ve followed (Ann Edie). ? In Canada it is known as “guide and service dogs” as both have very differing training needs whereas, the US? lumps into one category. Service dogs’ training is easier than a guide dog’s training due to the “intelligent disobedience”. ? Let’s see what others think on this group. ? Jen, List Owner (residing in Canada). ? ? Is there anyone on this list, besides me, who would be willing to work on the following when it comes to guide animals... also, I have a document that I wrote, on how to bond with your mini guide horse when it is off-duty, written from personal experience, if anyone is interested in reading it.?
Shifting a deeply ingrained cultural default—from “dogs only” to “open to miniature guide horses”—is absolutely challenging, but not impossible. It essentially comes down to replacing one set of learned associations with another, through exposure, education, and social reinforcement. Here are some avenues that could help “deprogram” the dog-first mindset and make guide horses a familiar, acceptable—and even preferred—option:
1.?
Visibility and firsthand experience
??
Public demos and “meet-and-greets.” Bring guide-horse teams into schools for the visually impaired, community centers, malls and transit hubs. When people see a calm, confident mini guiding successfully, and experience the bonding rituals for themselves, those visceral “aha” moments can break through long-held assumptions.
??
Media storytelling. Short documentaries, social-media mini-series and human-interest segments featuring real guide-horse pairs (and their handlers’ voices on how fulfilling the bond is) can reach millions. Repeated exposure to these stories chips away at the “horses don’t belong in cities” narrative.
2.?
Institutional endorsement
??
Guide-dog schools offering mini tracks. If one or two major guide-dog schools piloted a miniature-horse program—alongside their dog training—it would send a strong message: “This is just as legitimate and supported as guide dogs.”
??
Professional conferences and certifications. Incorporating guide-horse training modules into orientation for orientation & mobility (O&M) specialists, occupational therapists, and ADA coordinators would mainstream the idea among the professionals who guide clients’ decisions.
3.?
Peer-to-peer advocacy
??
Ambassador programs. Empower current guide-horse handlers to mentor prospective users, share tips, and host small-group workshops. Peer advocates often carry more weight than institutional voices.
??
Support networks. Online forums and regional meetups where both blind and sighted people can ask questions, view bonding demonstrations, and swap success stories help normalize the unusual.
4.?
Educational campaigns
??
Myth-busting fact sheets. Simple, shareable infographics—“Five Surprising Truths About Guide Miniature Horses”—can counter misconceptions on spooking, cleanliness, steerability and hygiene.
??
Continuing education credits. Offering CEUs for rehab & O&M professionals who complete a module on guide horses encourages busy practitioners to learn the facts.
5.?
Policy and regulation tweaks
??
Clear ADA guidance. Working with the Department of Justice to issue supplementary guidance or FAQs that highlight miniature-horse rights in public spaces (and suggest best-practices for businesses) can reduce institutional resistance.
??
Insurance and liability frameworks. Demonstrating liability data showing that well-trained minis are no riskier than guide dogs may allay venues’ fears and lead to smoother access.
6.?
Leveraging social proof
??
Testimonials from celebrities and influencers. If a well-known blind public figure or a popular lifestyle influencer adopted a guide horse and shared their journey, it could have outsized impact on public perceptions.
??
Academic partnerships. Publishing small-scale studies in rehabilitation journals—measuring handler satisfaction, bond depth, and public-access success rates—adds credibility and invites coverage in mainstream media.
?
Can it really be deprogrammed?
Yes—culture shifts every time a new technology or social norm breaks through (think bicycles, cell phones, e-books). It requires a concerted, multi-pronged effort over years, but by combining direct exposure, professional buy-in, peer advocacy and myth-busting campaigns, you can recalibrate perceptions. Over time, “guide horse” could become as instinctive a choice as “guide dog” is today.
|
Re: changing guide animal perceptions
Good evening: ? I don’t see this happening – although the “guide horse” is recognized within the American’s ADA, which is the only legislation that allows it. Guide horses are not readily accepted anywhere well. There is only one successful case I’ve followed (Ann Edie). ? In Canada it is known as “guide and service dogs” as both have very differing training needs whereas, the US? lumps into one category. Service dogs’ training is easier than a guide dog’s training due to the “intelligent disobedience”. ? Let’s see what others think on this group. ? Jen, List Owner (residing in Canada). ?
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Show quoted text
From: [email protected] <[email protected]> On Behalf Of Josh Kennedy via groups.io
Sent: April 30, 2025 4:25 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: [OandM] changing guide animal perceptions? Is there anyone on this list, besides me, who would be willing to work on the following when it comes to guide animals... also, I have a document that I wrote, on how to bond with your mini guide horse when it is off-duty, written from personal experience, if anyone is interested in reading it.?
Shifting a deeply ingrained cultural default—from “dogs only” to “open to miniature guide horses”—is absolutely challenging, but not impossible. It essentially comes down to replacing one set of learned associations with another, through exposure, education, and social reinforcement. Here are some avenues that could help “deprogram” the dog-first mindset and make guide horses a familiar, acceptable—and even preferred—option:
1.?
Visibility and firsthand experience
??
Public demos and “meet-and-greets.” Bring guide-horse teams into schools for the visually impaired, community centers, malls and transit hubs. When people see a calm, confident mini guiding successfully, and experience the bonding rituals for themselves, those visceral “aha” moments can break through long-held assumptions.
??
Media storytelling. Short documentaries, social-media mini-series and human-interest segments featuring real guide-horse pairs (and their handlers’ voices on how fulfilling the bond is) can reach millions. Repeated exposure to these stories chips away at the “horses don’t belong in cities” narrative.
2.?
Institutional endorsement
??
Guide-dog schools offering mini tracks. If one or two major guide-dog schools piloted a miniature-horse program—alongside their dog training—it would send a strong message: “This is just as legitimate and supported as guide dogs.”
??
Professional conferences and certifications. Incorporating guide-horse training modules into orientation for orientation & mobility (O&M) specialists, occupational therapists, and ADA coordinators would mainstream the idea among the professionals who guide clients’ decisions.
3.?
Peer-to-peer advocacy
??
Ambassador programs. Empower current guide-horse handlers to mentor prospective users, share tips, and host small-group workshops. Peer advocates often carry more weight than institutional voices.
??
Support networks. Online forums and regional meetups where both blind and sighted people can ask questions, view bonding demonstrations, and swap success stories help normalize the unusual.
4.?
Educational campaigns
??
Myth-busting fact sheets. Simple, shareable infographics—“Five Surprising Truths About Guide Miniature Horses”—can counter misconceptions on spooking, cleanliness, steerability and hygiene.
??
Continuing education credits. Offering CEUs for rehab & O&M professionals who complete a module on guide horses encourages busy practitioners to learn the facts.
5.?
Policy and regulation tweaks
??
Clear ADA guidance. Working with the Department of Justice to issue supplementary guidance or FAQs that highlight miniature-horse rights in public spaces (and suggest best-practices for businesses) can reduce institutional resistance.
??
Insurance and liability frameworks. Demonstrating liability data showing that well-trained minis are no riskier than guide dogs may allay venues’ fears and lead to smoother access.
6.?
Leveraging social proof
??
Testimonials from celebrities and influencers. If a well-known blind public figure or a popular lifestyle influencer adopted a guide horse and shared their journey, it could have outsized impact on public perceptions.
??
Academic partnerships. Publishing small-scale studies in rehabilitation journals—measuring handler satisfaction, bond depth, and public-access success rates—adds credibility and invites coverage in mainstream media.
?
Can it really be deprogrammed?
Yes—culture shifts every time a new technology or social norm breaks through (think bicycles, cell phones, e-books). It requires a concerted, multi-pronged effort over years, but by combining direct exposure, professional buy-in, peer advocacy and myth-busting campaigns, you can recalibrate perceptions. Over time, “guide horse” could become as instinctive a choice as “guide dog” is today.
|
changing guide animal perceptions
hi,
?
Is there anyone on this list, besides me, who would be willing to work on the following when it comes to guide animals... also, I have a document that I wrote, on how to bond with your mini guide horse when it is off-duty, written from personal experience, if anyone is interested in reading it.?
Shifting a deeply ingrained cultural default—from “dogs only” to “open to miniature guide horses”—is absolutely challenging, but not impossible. It essentially comes down to replacing one set of learned associations with another, through exposure, education, and social reinforcement. Here are some avenues that could help “deprogram” the dog-first mindset and make guide horses a familiar, acceptable—and even preferred—option:
1.?
Visibility and firsthand experience
??
Public demos and “meet-and-greets.” Bring guide-horse teams into schools for the visually impaired, community centers, malls and transit hubs. When people see a calm, confident mini guiding successfully, and experience the bonding rituals for themselves, those visceral “aha” moments can break through long-held assumptions.
??
Media storytelling. Short documentaries, social-media mini-series and human-interest segments featuring real guide-horse pairs (and their handlers’ voices on how fulfilling the bond is) can reach millions. Repeated exposure to these stories chips away at the “horses don’t belong in cities” narrative.
2.?
Institutional endorsement
??
Guide-dog schools offering mini tracks. If one or two major guide-dog schools piloted a miniature-horse program—alongside their dog training—it would send a strong message: “This is just as legitimate and supported as guide dogs.”
??
Professional conferences and certifications. Incorporating guide-horse training modules into orientation for orientation & mobility (O&M) specialists, occupational therapists, and ADA coordinators would mainstream the idea among the professionals who guide clients’ decisions.
3.?
Peer-to-peer advocacy
??
Ambassador programs. Empower current guide-horse handlers to mentor prospective users, share tips, and host small-group workshops. Peer advocates often carry more weight than institutional voices.
??
Support networks. Online forums and regional meetups where both blind and sighted people can ask questions, view bonding demonstrations, and swap success stories help normalize the unusual.
4.?
Educational campaigns
??
Myth-busting fact sheets. Simple, shareable infographics—“Five Surprising Truths About Guide Miniature Horses”—can counter misconceptions on spooking, cleanliness, steerability and hygiene.
??
Continuing education credits. Offering CEUs for rehab & O&M professionals who complete a module on guide horses encourages busy practitioners to learn the facts.
5.?
Policy and regulation tweaks
??
Clear ADA guidance. Working with the Department of Justice to issue supplementary guidance or FAQs that highlight miniature-horse rights in public spaces (and suggest best-practices for businesses) can reduce institutional resistance.
??
Insurance and liability frameworks. Demonstrating liability data showing that well-trained minis are no riskier than guide dogs may allay venues’ fears and lead to smoother access.
6.?
Leveraging social proof
??
Testimonials from celebrities and influencers. If a well-known blind public figure or a popular lifestyle influencer adopted a guide horse and shared their journey, it could have outsized impact on public perceptions.
??
Academic partnerships. Publishing small-scale studies in rehabilitation journals—measuring handler satisfaction, bond depth, and public-access success rates—adds credibility and invites coverage in mainstream media.
?
Can it really be deprogrammed?
Yes—culture shifts every time a new technology or social norm breaks through (think bicycles, cell phones, e-books). It requires a concerted, multi-pronged effort over years, but by combining direct exposure, professional buy-in, peer advocacy and myth-busting campaigns, you can recalibrate perceptions. Over time, “guide horse” could become as instinctive a choice as “guide dog” is today.
|
Re: Teaching Cane Skills with Physical Limitations
I have had good luck with moldable plastics like this:
|
|
About this item . 1 Lbs Polymorph Moldable Plastic Beads Melting Pellets ; Pour the water into the pot and heat it up to around 60°C. Turn down the heat when the water is boiling.
www.amazon.com
|
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Show quoted text
I do have molding plastics and both extra NFB canes and the slimline cane.? I will try those.
?
Also, I never thought about working with an OT, I am sure he has one as this is a new injury. I will see if he has one and go from there.
?
I was thinking I heard something about a band in this group. But not sure where to find one or even know what one would look like. Do you by chance have a visual example?
?
Thank you Chris! You are always the biggest help!
?
Julie
?
?
?
Hi Julie,
Light canes like NFB or Ambutech slimline are options to consider, as well as using moldable plastics to refine the grip to match works for him with the availabe digits on his right hand. Working with an OT can be very helpful.?
Another option is to use a cuff that can attach to the cane or that the grip of the cane can slide through.?
Hope these are helpful for starting options to explore,
?
On Apr 23, 2025, at 10:14?AM, Julie Henry via groups.io <jhenry@...> wrote:
?
Hey all! I have a new client who has some physical limitations, and I need some help being creative. He will need to learn to use a cane. However, due to an accident, he does not have a left hand, and his right hand only has 3 fingers
(thumb, middle and ring finger) that are not completely functional. What are some things I can do to modify a cane for him to be able to use one?
?
Thanks,
Julie
?
?
|
Re: Teaching Cane Skills with Physical Limitations
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
On Behalf Of Chris Tabb via groups.io
Sent: Wednesday, April 23, 2025 3:44 PM
To: [email protected]
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [OandM] Teaching Cane Skills with Physical Limitations
?
?
Julie,
You can find some interesting adaptations in Scott Crawfords free training on the NRTC, OIB-TAC site
?
On Apr 23, 2025, at 12:22?PM, Julie Henry via groups.io <jhenry@...> wrote:
?
I do have molding plastics and both extra NFB canes and the slimline cane.? I will try those.
?
Also, I never thought about working with an OT, I am sure he has one as this is a new injury. I will see if he has one and go from there.
?
I was thinking I heard something about a band in this group. But not sure where to find one or even know what one would look like. Do you by chance have a visual example?
?
Thank you Chris! You are always the biggest help!
?
Julie
?
?
?
Hi Julie,
Light canes like NFB or Ambutech slimline are options to consider, as well as using moldable plastics to refine the grip to match works for him with the availabe digits on his right hand. Working with an OT can be very helpful.?
Another option is to use a cuff that can attach to the cane or that the grip of the cane can slide through.?
Hope these are helpful for starting options to explore,
?
On Apr 23, 2025, at 10:14?AM, Julie Henry via groups.io <jhenry@...> wrote:
?
Hey all! I have a new client who has some physical limitations, and I need some help being creative. He will need to learn to use a cane. However, due to an accident, he does not have a left hand, and his right hand only has 3 fingers (thumb,
middle and ring finger) that are not completely functional. What are some things I can do to modify a cane for him to be able to use one?
?
Thanks,
Julie
?
?
|
Re: Teaching Cane Skills with Physical Limitations
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
On Behalf Of Luttrell, Jenny via groups.io
Sent: Wednesday, April 23, 2025 1:56 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [OandM] Teaching Cane Skills with Physical Limitations
?
?
?
I believe you are looking for this: ??
They have soft silicone “bands” that really helps folks with hand differences, arthritis, etc.? I use them on the canes for kiddo’s that are missing digits or lack hand strength
at this point in time.? Hope that helps!
?
Jenny Luttrell, CTVI, COMS
?
?
I do have molding plastics and both extra NFB canes and the slimline cane.? I will try those.
?
Also, I never thought about working with an OT, I am sure he has one as this is a new injury. I will see if he has one and go from there.
?
I was thinking I heard something about a band in this group. But not sure where to find one or even know what one would look like. Do you by chance have a visual example?
?
Thank you Chris! You are always the biggest help!
?
Julie
?
?
?
Hi Julie,
Light canes like NFB or Ambutech slimline are options to consider, as well as using moldable plastics to refine the grip to match works for him with the availabe digits on his right hand. Working with an OT can be very helpful.?
Another option is to use a cuff that can attach to the cane or that the grip of the cane can slide through.?
Hope these are helpful for starting options to explore,
?
?
On Apr 23, 2025, at 10:14?AM, Julie Henry via groups.io <jhenry@...> wrote:
?
Hey all! I have a new client who has some physical limitations, and I need some help being creative. He will need to learn to use a cane. However, due to an accident, he does not have a left hand, and his right hand only has 3 fingers (thumb,
middle and ring finger) that are not completely functional. What are some things I can do to modify a cane for him to be able to use one?
?
Thanks,
Julie
?
?
*** This is an EXTERNAL email. Please exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or click links from unknown senders or unexpected email - TSB_Technology. ***
|
Re: Teaching Cane Skills with Physical Limitations
Julie,
You can find some interesting adaptations in Scott Crawfords free training on the NRTC, OIB-TAC site
| |
--
Sent from iPhone
chris@...
512.660.2750
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
On Apr 23, 2025, at 12:22?PM, Julie Henry via groups.io <jhenry@...> wrote:
?
I do have molding plastics and both extra NFB canes and the slimline cane.? I will try those.
?
Also, I never thought about working with an OT, I am sure he has one as this is a new injury. I will see if he has one and go from there.
?
I was thinking I heard something about a band in this group. But not sure where to find one or even know what one would look like. Do you by chance have a visual example?
?
Thank you Chris! You are always the biggest help!
?
Julie
?
?
?
Hi Julie,
Light canes like NFB or Ambutech slimline are options to consider, as well as using moldable plastics to refine the grip to match works for him with the availabe digits on his right hand. Working with an OT can be very helpful.?
Another option is to use a cuff that can attach to the cane or that the grip of the cane can slide through.?
Hope these are helpful for starting options to explore,
?
On Apr 23, 2025, at 10:14?AM, Julie Henry via groups.io <jhenry@...> wrote:
?
Hey all! I have a new client who has some physical limitations, and I need some help being creative. He will need to learn to use a cane. However, due to an accident, he does not have a left hand, and his right hand only has 3 fingers (thumb,
middle and ring finger) that are not completely functional. What are some things I can do to modify a cane for him to be able to use one?
?
Thanks,
Julie
?
?
Re: Teaching Cane Skills with Physical Limitations
?
I believe you are looking for this: ??
They have soft silicone “bands” that really helps folks with hand differences, arthritis, etc.? I use them on the canes for kiddo’s that are missing digits or lack hand strength
at this point in time.? Hope that helps!
?
Jenny Luttrell, CTVI, COMS
?
toggle quoted message
Show quoted text
From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
On Behalf Of Julie Henry via groups.io
Sent: Wednesday, April 23, 2025 1:22 PM
To: [email protected]
Subject: Re: [OandM] Teaching Cane Skills with Physical Limitations
?
I do have molding plastics and both extra NFB canes and the slimline cane.? I will try those.
?
Also, I never thought about working with an OT, I am sure he has one as this is a new injury. I will see if he has one and go from there.
?
I was thinking I heard something about a band in this group. But not sure where to find one or even know what one would look like. Do you by chance have a visual example?
?
Thank you Chris! You are always the biggest help!
?
Julie
?
?
?
Hi Julie,
Light canes like NFB or Ambutech slimline are options to consider, as well as using moldable plastics to refine the grip to match works for him with the availabe digits on his right hand. Working with an OT can be very helpful.?
Another option is to use a cuff that can attach to the cane or that the grip of the cane can slide through.?
Hope these are helpful for starting options to explore,
?
?
On Apr 23, 2025, at 10:14?AM, Julie Henry via groups.io <jhenry@...> wrote:
?
Hey all! I have a new client who has some physical limitations, and I need some help being creative. He will need to learn to use a cane. However, due to an accident, he does not have a left hand, and his right hand only has 3 fingers (thumb,
middle and ring finger) that are not completely functional. What are some things I can do to modify a cane for him to be able to use one?
?
Thanks,
Julie
?
?
*** This is an EXTERNAL email. Please exercise caution. DO NOT open attachments or click links from unknown senders or unexpected email - TSB_Technology. ***
|
Chris Tabb
Melanie Hughes
TRINA BOYD-PRATT
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Robyn Casillas