Okla. Admin. Code § 612:10-9-1

Current through Vol. 42, No. 7, December 16, 2024

Section 612:10-9-1 - Philosophy and scope of program

(a) Blindness is a serious, disabling condition requiring adjustments in an individual's lifestyle to be a fully functional member of society. The primary task of the rehabilitation teacher is to provide services that enable a legally blind or severely visually impaired individual to make these necessary adjustments to cope with the demands of living with a severe visual impairment.

(b) The services available through the rehabilitation teaching program directed toward assisting people with severe visual impairment or who are blind to live more independently are:

(1) Counseling and guidance directed toward helping the consumer and/or the consumer's family adjust to blindness, to understand the limitations it imposes, and to make a realistic assessment of his/her capabilities.

(2) Provide evaluation and instruction in the techniques and procedures for performing those tasks and activities necessary to daily living.

(3) Provide resource information and make referrals as needed for additional services.

(4) Assist the consumer in becoming oriented to his/her residence and develop a basic level of safety and independence in indoor mobility.

(5) Provide instruction in the various communication media designed to enhance the individual's ability to communicate with others and maintain personal and other records.

(6) Assist the individual in over-coming mannerisms and behavior patterns associated with low vision or blindness that are deterrents to social adjustment.

(7) Provide and/or arrange specialized instructional services in the areas of home and personal management.

(8) Rehabilitation teaching staff must participate in the evaluation, assessment and adjustment processes in the vocational rehabilitation process.

(c) Rehabilitation teaching independent living services is a formalized program of services with the purpose of enhancing the ability of an individual with a severe visual disability to live independently and function within his/her family and community and, if appropriate, secure and maintain employment.

(d) Independent living is defined as control of one's life based on the choice of acceptable options which minimize reliance on others in decision making and in performing every day activities.

Okla. Admin. Code § 612:10-9-1

Added at 10 Ok Reg 4633, eff 9-1-93 (emergency); Added at 11 Ok Reg 2449, eff 7-1-94; Amended at 21 Ok Reg 1774, eff 7-1-04

Amended by Oklahoma Register, Volume 35, Issue 24, September 4, 2018, eff. 9/14/2018