Neurological Visual Impairment Interest Group
Statement of Purpose
The Multiple Disabilities and Visual Impairment Interest Group exists to address the complex and multifaceted needs of individuals who have visual impairments in combination with additional disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, physical disabilities, autism, medical complexities, and other co-occurring conditions. Professionals working with this population must navigate highly individualized learning profiles, communication systems, health needs, and support structures that require interdisciplinary coordination and specialized expertise.
While AER includes divisions that address specific service areas (e.g., orientation & mobility, education, low vision rehabilitation), there is not currently a dedicated and sustained space focused on the intersection of visual impairment and multiple disabilities across the lifespan. This Interest Group fills that gap by providing a collaborative forum for professionals who support individuals with complex access, communication, mobility, and participation needs.
The group will serve as a hub for educators, therapists, service providers, administrators, researchers, and family partners who are committed to advancing best practices, promoting dignity and autonomy, and ensuring equitable access to learning, community participation, and quality of life.
Statement of Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Strengthen Professional Knowledge and Practice for Individuals with Multiple Disabilities and Visual Impairment
Objectives:
- Provide regular professional development offerings—including webinars, case-based learning sessions, and resource guides—on topics such as complex communication, sensory access, medical considerations, positioning and mobility, behavior support, and inclusive educational practices.
- Curate and disseminate evidence-based practices, assessment tools, and instructional strategies for learners with multiple disabilities and visual impairment.
- Highlight interdisciplinary approaches by incorporating perspectives from speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, special education, and healthcare professionals.
Goal 2: Build a Collaborative Community of Practice Within AER
Objectives:
- Create opportunities for networking, peer consultation, and shared problem-solving through virtual forums, conference sessions, and ongoing discussion groups.
- Promote mentorship for professionals new to serving students or adults with multiple disabilities and visual impairment.
- Encourage cross–interest group collaboration with Orientation & Mobility, Psychosocial Services, Education, Deafblindness, and Aging groups to ensure integrated service delivery.
Goal 3: Advance Research, Knowledge Translation, and Position Development
Objectives:
- Support and promote member-led research and program evaluation focused on effective practices, service delivery models, and outcomes for individuals with multiple disabilities and visual impairment.
- Develop AER position papers and white papers on key topics such as inclusive education, communication rights, access to services, and quality-of-life indicators.
- Partner with national organizations, universities, and advocacy groups to translate research into practice and disseminate findings broadly.
Goal 4: Promote Systems-Level Advocacy and Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Objectives:
- Identify systemic barriers related to funding, service eligibility, educational access, and adult services for individuals with multiple disabilities and visual impairment.
- Collaborate with other AER divisions, national coalitions, and interdisciplinary professional groups to develop joint statements, policy recommendations, and advocacy initiatives.
- Increase public and professional awareness of the capabilities, rights, and contributions of individuals with multiple disabilities and visual impairment.
Goal 5: Enhance Member Value, Leadership Opportunities, and Resource Development
Objectives:
- Provide practical tools, templates, and implementation guides that support members in their daily work (e.g., IEP strategies, communication supports, environmental adaptations).
- Create leadership pathways for members to lead webinars, contribute to publications, and co-author position papers.
- Ensure alignment with AER’s mission to advance education and rehabilitation for individuals with visual impairments and complex needs.
To become an associate of the AER Multiple Disabilities and Visual Impairment Interest Group email a confirmation of commitment to [email protected].