This is a common occurrence and one of the many reasons why relationships change among friends. As previously discussed, persons who are visually-impaired must be proactive, and educate and communicate with others about their vision impairment. To achieve these objectives, you will need to first feel comfortable about sharing your visual limitations (plus your capabilities) with others, and this is not always an easy thing to do. Persons with a recently diagnosed vision impairment will occasionally attempt to “hide” it from others due to feelings of embarrassment, shame, or a fear of being rejected. People cannot respond to you if they are unaware of your eye condition. Plan how you wish to tell others and then do it. If you feel uncomfortable speaking to them face-to-face, telephone them and say, “I value our friendship and I didn’t mean to ignore you today. I haven’t told you but I’ve lost some vision and I can’t always recognize people I know. It would be helpful to me when we next meet if you would identify yourself so I’m able to hear and/or recognize your voice.” Common responses are, “Why didn’t you tell me? I didn’t know about your vision loss... We’ve been friends and neighbors for years! I thought you were angry at me. Is there anything I can do to help you?

In addition to voice recognition, you might also learn to use other cues to help you identify a friend or family member such as the sound of the way they walk, their perfume or cologne, or the kinds of activities they’re involved in (a husband ‘fixing things,’ a daughter washing dishes, or a son on the computer). You might also find it helpful to review the section on Maximizing all Your Senses.