Vision loss can be caused by different factors. It can be due to an eye injury, a condition like glaucoma or macular degeneration, or it can be caused by a hereditary or genetic condition. Whatever the cause, if it is unable to be improved or be treated with conventional corrective devices (i.e. contact lenses and eyeglasses), surgery, or medication, you may formally be considered legally blind. However, that does not mean that you will not be able to perform daily tasks and that you have to stop enjoying the things you love to do. There are strategies for coping with low vision or complete vision loss. Here are some suggestions:

  • Understand why it happened – Learn about your condition. Seek a vision loss specialist from a non-profit organization that specializes in offering services for the blind and visually impaired.
  • Talk to your family and friends – You need to let them know about your condition so they can understand it and make adjustments to accommodate your needs. They can even help improve your surroundings to make sure that you are safe in your own home or office.
  • Consider counseling – Vision loss can make you feel isolated, helpless, depressed, and lonely. There are non-profit organizations and doctors offering support groups and counseling services for coping with vision loss based on your individual requirements.
  • Go through the grief – Losing your vision can be devastating, but that does not mean that you should be in denial. Understanding the grief and acknowledging your feelings associated with the situation may help improve your ability to cope with the emotional and physiological challenges of low vision.
  • Consider low vision rehabilitation – Some non-profit organizations offer free low vision rehabilitation programs. They have low vision specialists who have the resources and expertise to aid you in coping with vision loss and ensuring that you can succeed in it. They will work with you to assess your unique needs, provide tips on improving your environment to accommodate your needs, and walk you through the options for devices that could help you do your daily tasks like cooking, reading and watching TV.

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