From navigating busy streets to enjoying a walk in the great outdoors, Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training helps people who are blind or have low vision move through the world with greater confidence and independence.
For many of us, travelling to the local shops, catching public transport or exploring a new neighbourhood is something we do without a second thought. But for someone who is blind or has low vision, these everyday journeys can present different challenges.
That’s where VisAbility’s O&M Specialists come in.
O&M is a specialised service that helps people who are blind or have low vision develop the skills, techniques and confidence to navigate their surroundings safely and independently.
And while learning to use a white cane is one important part of O&M, there’s much more to it.
So, what exactly is Orientation and Mobility?
Put simply, orientation is about knowing where you are and where you want to go, while mobility is about getting there safely.
Orientation involves understanding your surroundings, planning routes and recognising environmental clues. These might include the sound of passing traffic, the slope of a footpath or even the familiar smell of a local bakery.
Mobility focuses on the practical skills and tools that help someone travel safely, whether that’s using a white cane, navigating a busy intersection or learning to use public transport.
O&M Specialists work one-on-one with clients, tailoring training to their individual needs, abilities and goals.
For some, that might mean learning to confidently cross the road or catch a bus independently. For others, it could be finding their way around a new workplace, navigating a shopping centre or returning to a favourite bushwalking trail.
O&M training can help people:
- Develop white cane skills and learn to use accessible navigation technology.
- Travel safely with family, friends or companions using human guide techniques.
- Navigate footpaths, road crossings and busy intersections.
- Build confidence using public transport and planning journeys.
- Learn familiar routes, such as travelling to the supermarket, school, work or medical appointments.
- Navigate indoor environments, including stairs, lifts and unfamiliar buildings.
- Explore outdoor environments, including walking trails and uneven terrain.
Ultimately, it’s about helping people do more of the things that matter to them.
Laura’s journey to O&M specialist
For VisAbility Tasmania O&M Specialist Laura, a career helping others find their way began in a rather unexpected place – with the promise of free pizza!
While completing her undergraduate studies in social psychology at Western Michigan University in the United States, Laura received an invitation to an information session about postgraduate programs in blindness and low vision.
“I was in my last semester at university and received an email about free pizza at the Blindness and Low Vision department’s graduate program information session,” Laura recalls.
“I had time between classes and worked on campus, so I stopped by.”
It turned out to be a life-changing decision.
At the session, Laura discovered the field of Orientation and Mobility and immediately recognised a career that combined her interests in people, the outdoors and practical problem-solving.
“I have always loved being outdoors, backpacking and bushwalking, so being outside working with people seemed like a great fit.”
Laura went on to complete her master’s degree in Orientation and Mobility in just one year, undertaking two intensive semesters of coursework followed by a summer internship involving more than 350 hours of practical experience.
Today, she brings that knowledge and enthusiasm to her work supporting people who are blind or have low vision in Tasmania.
Working closely with clients means Laura gets to know their individual goals, understand the challenges they face and share in their achievements.
For someone learning a new route or attempting a challenging road crossing, the process can initially feel daunting. But seeing that uncertainty turn into confidence is what makes the role so rewarding.
“Often there is anxiety around some of the skills we teach, and there is a moment where that anxiety turns to joy or accomplishment when someone is successful in completing a route, a road crossing, or enjoys getting out in the community again.”
It’s these moments that highlight the difference O&M training can make – not just in helping someone get from one place to another, but in building confidence, connection and independence.
Laura is also passionate about encouraging others to consider a career in Orientation and Mobility.
“We are always encouraging people to join the O&M field. So please research, ask questions, and see if you can connect with an O&M for an observation to really get a feel and experience for the job.”
For Laura, it’s a career that offers variety, creativity and the opportunity to make a difference in her clients’ lives.