TAVIM Q&A

TAVIM Questions and Answers

Q. What are the requirements to participate in the program?
A. One must be 55 years or older and be legally blind as per US definition of legal blindness. All participants must also be a resident of the state of Missouri. All participants will need to have Internet service to the home prior to receiving the computer during the program. We encourage you to apply to TAP-I first. If you are denied, you may apply here.

Q. Are there any income guidelines for the program?
A. No.

Q. Can I get assistance in getting an Internet account set up for me?
A. Yes there is some assistance available.

Q. Can more than one family member participate in the program at the same time?
A. Yes, if each individual qualifies in terms of age and legal blindness.

Q. Can I get a laptop computer?
A. Yes, in fact most of the computers we will issue through the program will be laptop computers.

Q. Do I need to know how to use a computer to get in the program?
A. No, you don’t. The program is designed to teach people to use the computer issued to them. One will, however, need to learn the basics of touch typing in order to be successful in the program. Resources for such training will be part of the discussion prior to participants beginning the program.

Q. If I already have a computer, but just need the training, can I participate in this program?
A. If one meets the vision and age requirements, that is an option. TAVIM can make arrangements to make sure one has the software needed to be successful in the program. If you the qualified applicant, has the funds to purchase a basic computer, by purchasing your own with our refurbished computer links provided, TAVIM can still provide the quality training for free.

Q. Will I have to buy JAWS, Zoomtext, or some other adaptive software before I can get started?
A. No, adaptive software will be part of the package issued to you on the computer. Basic information on how to navigate using the adaptive software will be part of the introductory instruction materials.

Q. Where do I need to go to get the training?
A. The training will be done in your own home, with materials supplied to help you learn independently.

Q. Will somebody be able to come to my home and help me if I get in trouble?
A. In extreme cases, one-to-one instruction can be arranged, with either the participant or the trainer doing the traveling. The possibility also exists for remote training to be performed given the abilities of the participant.

Q. How long will it take to get a computer in the program?
A. The time will depend on several factors including the time it takes to actually receive the computers that we order use in our program.

Q. If I’m blind, and/or all of my family members are blind, how can we fill out the application?
A. Participants are encouraged to seek assistance from a friend, neighbor, relative, or other close person to help them in completing the application. However, we at TAVIM can also assist in helping applicants fill out the application if needed.

Q. Who would be responsible for upkeep and repairs of the computer once I get it?
A. The participant will be responsible for maintenance, upkeep, and repairs of the computer once it is issued. However participants are encouraged to contact TAVIM for guidance.

Q. Can I get the application in braille?
A. Yes the application can be sent out in braille, but submission of the application to TAVIM will need to be in print or electronic format.

If you have further questions please feel free to reach out to us.