2025-01-02
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Liao Ching-chih, Director of the Social Affairs Bureau, highlighted that this program is a thoughtful New Year’s gift for seniors in need. Statistics from the National Health Administration reveal that around 17% of seniors face vision issues or degeneration. Preventing deteriorating vision early can help reduce fall risks and delay age-related disabilities. Special thanks go to the Taichung Optometrists Association, the Opticians Association of Taichung City, the Taichung City Municipality Watch and Glasses Business Guild, and the Taichung City Watch and Glasses Business Guild for their expertise and contributions to public welfare, collectively safeguarding seniors’ eye health.
“This is a wonderful cycle of kindness!” said Director Liao. This year, the lottery winner, who won a grand prize of NT$1.9 billion, is from Taichung. He generously donated NT$8 million to the city government. Of this donation, NT$900,000 was used in the Eyewear Subsidy and Vision Check Service for Seniors program, which fosters collaboration with private, professional organizations and over 60 optical shops and eyewear businesses. The program aims to help seniors suffering from presbyopia obtain the right glasses, improve their quality of life, and minimize the social exclusion that can arise from financial hardship and deteriorating vision.
Hsieh Hsiao-hang, Chairman of the Taichung Optometrists Association, stressed that protecting the eye health of Taichung citizens is the mission of the four professional organizations and that supporting the city government in delivering services to seniors is an essential responsibility. On December 27, they conducted training for all members participating in the program. Hsieh also advised seniors applying for the service that if any eye diseases are detected during the vision test, it’s best to consult a doctor before obtaining an appropriate eyewear. Service units accept applications by appointment and offer qualified individuals glasses within the prescription range of -6.00 to -2.00 and +4.00 to -2.00, as well as eyeglass prescription, basic adjustments, and maintenance services.
The Social Affairs Bureau noted that the city government cares for senior citizens through various aspects, including health, social welfare, transportation, and sports. Efforts include giving 1,000 free points of the Senior Love Card to senior citizens each month (best among the six municipalities), continuously establishing community care centers and Senior Academy programs, encouraging lifelong learning and creating an age-friendly, low-carbon, and sustainable environment. The Eyewear Subsidy and Vision Check Service for Seniors program will close applications once the funding is used up, and announcements will be made accordingly. For further inquiries, please contact the Social Affairs Bureau at 04-22289111*37400.
