VA's VIST Program Enriches Lives of Visually Impaired Veterans
The Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System is making a difference in the lives of visually impaired veterans through its Visually Impaired Services Team (VIST) program.
. This innovative program offers a variety of activities and support groups designed to enhance the well-being of Veterans with vision loss.
"As many as 10 Veterans participate monthly in this program," says Chanda Harrison, a Ralph H. Johnson VA blind rehabilitation specialist. "We offer three different groups each month: a support group with guest speakers, an expressive arts group, and a talking books group."
The expressive arts group in Charleston is a particular highlight, with Veterans engaging in activities like clay modeling, painting, mosaics, and origami. Veterans taking part in the expressive arts group have shown positive results, improving mental health, confidence, senses of community, and developing new skills and coping mechanisms. According to the National Library of Medicine article, Arts activity, and well-being for visually impaired military Veterans: a narrative discussion of current knowledge, art activities like tactile art, music, and dance can all show mental health improvements for Veterans that take part in these types of community groups.
"Several Veterans have even showcased their work at the tactile art show at the Charleston County Public Library," Harrison said.
Harrison said the importance of a judgment-free environment where Veterans can connect with others on similar journeys is important for their development and therapy. The local art group has had success in providing an outlet for Veterans.
"When the [art] group started in 2021, many participants were hesitant to engage in art due to their vision loss," she said. "Over time, they gained trust and learned that beauty in art is subjective. Initially, participants worked quietly and only engaged with me. Now, they interact and engage with each other, fostering a more connected and social atmosphere.”
According to the VA’s website, VIST is a national Veteran Affairs program with the overall goal being to create a space that reduces stress and anxiety, increasing serotonin levels, and supporting overall well-being. VIST coordinator services are available at all VHA Medical Centers.
For Charleston Veterans interested in learning more about the Ralph H. Johnson VA VIST program, contact VIST Coordinator Kristine Williams at (843) 789-6062.