New to Vision Loss?

Starting a journey with vision loss can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate blindness or low vision alone. Welcome to “New to Vision Loss?,” your essential starting point for this new chapter. This section offers clear, supportive, and practical information on emotional adjustment and support groups, vision rehabilitation, medication management, and more designed for those who are newly diagnosed or adjusting to vision changes. Think of it as your roadmap to move forward with confidence and understanding.

You can also download Getting Started: A Guide for People New to Vision Loss, which has tips you and your family can use to navigate life with blindness or low vision.

Eye Health and Vision Changes

Some vision changes are normal as we grow older. This section of our website discusses these vision changes, explains the parts of the eye and how the eye works, alerts you to symptoms of possible vision problems, and provides you with a list of questions to ask your eye doctor, including: You can also learn […]

Understanding Vision Rehabilitation

The term “vision rehabilitation” includes a wide range of professional services that can restore functioning after declining vision, just as physical therapy restores function after a stroke or other injury. Vision rehabilitation services allow people who have recently lost vision, are blind, or have low vision to continue to live independently and maintain their accustomed […]

Emotional Adjustment to Declining Vision: It’s A Family Matter

Declining vision, and even the diagnosis of an eye condition, is an emotional experience for anyone experiencing it. Age, experience, and a person’s personality and self-esteem all play key roles in their ability to respond to life’s challenges. This includes adapting to the onset of a disability. However, it can often be just as difficult for the loved ones around them. Vision changes often create feelings of immense loss or […]

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Meeting, Guiding, and Orienting a Person Who is Blind or Low Vision

Family, friends, and professionals are often unsure of how to interact with and assist older people who are blind or low vision. They aren’t sure what individuals can see, what is considered standard courtesy, and what type of assistance older people who are blind or low vision may desire. Know that the vision of one […]

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Labeling and Marking: A Guide for Low Vision and Blindness

Living with vision changes or blindness often involves navigating unique challenges. Tasks like identifying household items, organizing medications, or distinguishing clothing may feel frustrating. A thoughtful and consistent labeling and marking system will enhance independence and streamline everyday routines. This guide explores practical strategies, from utilizing common household items to leveraging specialized low cost/low tech […]

Medication Management for Blind & Low Vision: Tips, Tools, and Safety

Managing medications and eye drops safely is essential for everyone, but it can be especially challenging for individuals who are blind or have low vision. From identifying pills to keeping track of dosages and administering eye drops, small adaptations can make a big difference in independence and safety. This guide brings together practical tips, labeling […]

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Personal Care and Hygiene for Blind Adults

Maintaining personal hygiene is an essential part of health, confidence, and independence, but vision loss can make everyday routines like brushing teeth, trimming nails, and shaving feel challenging. With the right techniques, adaptive tools, and a few practical strategies, people who are blind or low vision can perform these tasks safely, efficiently, and confidently. Brushing […]

Communicating Your Needs When Blind or Low Vision

Vision changes can present new challenges, especially when it comes to communicating needs effectively. Learning to advocate for yourself and clearly express your needs is a vital skill for individuals experiencing changes in their vision. This article offers practical advice and tips empowering you to navigate these conversations with confidence. Self-Advocacy is Key Healthy and […]

Support Groups: Their Role in the Adjustment Process

If you are new to blindness or low vision, you may feel overwhelmed and need additional support. Participation in a support group may facilitate your adjustment to vision loss. Support groups bring people together who share a similar life challenge. Members learn to cope and feel less isolated as they connect with others who can […]