Posted: Fullerton, CA, October 7, 2011
To their delight, dozens of visually challenged children and adults were able to experience hands-on demonstrations of the most current technology for enhancing one's remaining sight. Powerful hand-held magnifiers, computer software that converts voice to text or text to voice, oversized computer keyboards, and much more was available to try at the Southern California College of Optometry's (SCCO's), Applebaum Symposium and Technology Fair on October 6. Information on guide dogs and other services for the visually impaired was also provided.
Pediatric vision care and technology for the visually impaired was the focus for the daylong event held on the College's Fullerton campus. Optos, the designer, developer and manufacturer of retinal imaging equipment, was the sponsor.
SCCO faculty discussed, "Technology's Role in Pediatric Vision Care," during the Applebaum Symposium. Each speaker emphasized the importance of a complete vision exam for all children beginning at six months of age. Speakers included: Associate Professor and Chief, Pediatric Vision Care Services Raymond Chu, O.D., M.S.; Associate Professor and Coordinator, Special Populations–Pediatric Care Services Catherine Heyman, O.D.; and Assistant Professor and Assistant Chief, Vision Therapy Services Kristine Huang, O.D., M.P.H.
SCCO received an endowment pledge of $200,000 from Dr. Morris and Arleen Applebaum in 2010 to support a lectureship endowment. A 1968 graduate of SCCO, the gift recognizes Dr. Applebaum's many years of service and contributions to the College and the optometric community. The Applebaum Symposium and Technology Fair is a result of the couple's gift.
Established in 1904, SCCO is a private, non-profit, educational institution dedicated to educating today's minds to provide tomorrow's eye, vision and health care. SCCO grants a four-year, professional degree, Doctor of Optometry (OD) and a Master of Science in Vision Science (MS), it also offers a Vision Care Assistant (VCA) Program. In August 2011, the College announced plans to start a Physician Assistant program – the first in Orange County – via a two-year graduate degree.