Largely due to the Baby Boom generation, experts predict that by 2030, rates of vision loss will double along with the country’s aging population. Caring for someone with vision loss can be deeply rewarding – but it also requires patience, understanding, and the right approach to provide meaningful support. Vision loss, whether partial or total, can stem from a variety of conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, or injury.
Below is a helpful guide on how to care for someone with vision loss, including practical tips, emotional support strategies, and safety considerations.
Recognize the Impact
Vision loss can affect mobility, independence, and mental health. Feelings of frustration, anxiety, and depression are common. Empathy and compassion are crucial in supporting your loved one’s emotional well-being.
Communicate Clearly
Ask how they prefer to be assisted, and listen to their needs.
Vision loss is unique for every individual, so personalized support is essential.
De-clutter and Organize
Keep living spaces free of obstacles. Arrange furniture consistently to prevent tripping or disorientation.
Improve Lighting
Ensure well-lit spaces with adjustable, glare-free lighting to enhance visibility for those with partial sight.
Contrast for Clarity
Put a dark rug on a light-colored tile floor where a step is, use a light-colored
coffee mug for coffee, or put a dark-colored placemat under plates at the table.
Mark Key Items
Use tactile markers, raised dots, or bright tape on frequently used items like appliances, light switches, or remote controls. Just try not to OVER-label or OVER-mark.
Assist When Needed
Offer help, but try not to assume they always need assistance.
Ask before intervening and respect their autonomy.
Label and Organize
Help label items like medication bottles or pantry goods with braille,
large print, or audio tags.
Encourage Mobility Training
Suggest mobility aids, like canes or guide dogs, and support them
in learning orientation and mobility skills from trained professionals.
Teach Technology Skills
Introduce adaptive technology such as screen readers, voice-command devices,
or apps designed for visually impaired users.
Validate Their Feelings
Acknowledge their struggles and provide reassurance.
Encourage open conversations about their new challenges.
Encourage Social Connections
Isolation is common among individuals with vision loss. Help them connect
with support groups, community events, or hobbies that foster social interaction.
Be Patient
Adjusting to vision loss takes time. Offer encouragement and celebrate
small milestones in their journey toward independence.
Meal Preparation
Use adaptive kitchen tools like talking thermometers, tactile cutting boards,
or pre-measured cooking aids. Organize the kitchen for easy access.
Grooming and Dressing
Help organize clothing by color or type for ease of matching.
Label toiletries with tactile markers or rubber bands for easy identification.
Navigating Outdoors
Offer guidance by describing surroundings. Let them hold your arm while walking,
and give verbal cues for steps, curbs, or obstacles. Always go at THEIR pace.
Reading and Writing
Provide large-print books, audiobooks, or digital devices with text-to-speech
functionality. Consider braille writing tools if they are learning braille.
Smartphones and Apps
Modern smartphones offer built-in accessibility features such as voice commands, magnification, and screen readers. Seek out apps created for the vision-impaired.
Adaptive Devices
Introduce talking watches, magnifiers, or electronic braille displays to help boost confidence and independence.
Community Services
Research local resources like rehabilitation centers, vision loss support organizations,
or government programs for additional support.
Adapt Activities
Help them adapt hobbies they enjoy, such as knitting, gardening, or playing music.
Many activities can be modified to suit their abilities.
Explore New Interests
Introduce them to audio-based hobbies like podcasts, audiobooks, or descriptive movies. Encourage participation in accessible sports or art programs.
Regular Check-Ups
Schedule regular visits with eye care professionals to monitor changes in vision
or to manage underlying conditions.
Vision Rehabilitation Services
Work with professionals who specialize in low vision therapy to teach
practical skills for daily living.
Mental Health Support
Encourage counseling or therapy if they struggle with the emotional aspects of vision loss. Support groups can also provide valuable peer connections.
Describe Clearly
Use detailed descriptions of surroundings, objects, or actions.
Avoid vague terms like “over there.”
Announce Your Presence
Greet them by name when entering a room and never leave without
saying you’re doing so. Save them the embarrassment of talking to thin air.
Provide Context
Narrate important details during shared activities, like explaining what’s
happening in a movie or social setting.
Be Patient with Responses
Allow extra time for them to process information or navigate challenges.
Family and Friends
Involve family and friends in providing emotional and practical support.
Community Resources
Research organizations like the American Foundation for the Blind,
National Federation of the Blind, or Lighthouse Guild for guidance and support.
Professional Help
Consult occupational therapists or low-vision specialists to develop
tailored strategies for independence.
Focus on Abilities
Emphasize their strengths and what they can do, rather than what they cannot.
Set Achievable Goals
Help them set realistic and meaningful goals to foster confidence and motivation.
Celebrate Success
Acknowledge their accomplishments, no matter how small,
to bolster their self-esteem and resilience.
Sources:
National Council on Aging
American Foundation for the Blind
National Institutes of Health
Our team can create a customized plan that meets the needs of your loved one. Please call us today or fill out the form below to learn more and schedule a consultation.
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