Visual impairment
Information and advice for people with vision loss
In the UK, there are almost 2 million people living with sight loss. Of these, around 360,000 are registered as blind or partially sighted.
Being toldyouhave a visual impairment that can't be treated can be difficult to come to terms with. Somepeople go through a process similar to bereavement, where they experience a range of emotions including shock, anger, and denial, before eventually coming to accept their condition.
If you're blind or partially sighted, you may be referred to a specialist low-vision clinic, which is often located within a hospital. Staff at the clinic can help you understand your condition and come to termswith your diagnosis. They can also advise you about practical things, such as lighting and vision aids, and let you know about further sources of help and support.
Ask your local hospital if they have an Eye Clinic Liaison Officer (ECLO), whose role involves providing support to people with vision loss in eye clinics.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 30 Nov 2016
Information and advice for people with vision loss
Information for people with vision loss including details of support organisations, plus advice about specialist equipment, home modifications and mobility.
Support groups
If you're blind or partially sighted, you may find it helpfulto contact a support group for people with visionloss. Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) TheRoyal National Institute of Blind
Registering as blind or partially sighted
If your vision has deteriorated to a certain level, you may choose to register as visually impaired. Depending on the severity of your vision loss you'll either be registered as sight impaired (previo
Changesto your home
Most visually impaired people can continue to live at home. However, you'llprobably need to makesome changes to your home, particularly if you live on your own. Below is a list of someimportant pieces
Reading and writing
There are several options available if you're having problems reading standard text in books, newspapers and magazines. One of the simplest options is to usea magnifying device that can make print app
Getting around
There are several different methods you can use toget around independentlyif you have a problem with your vision. Long cane You may find a long cane useful when travelling. These type ofcanes are usua
Employment
If you're currently employed and have recently been diagnosed with a visual impairment, you should contact theAccess to Work scheme. Access to Work is a scheme run by Jobcentre Plus that provides advi
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