Information for Family, Friends, and Caregivers

Challenges of Everyday Living

What happens when one of your family members—your son or daughter, husband or wife, or mother or father—is experiencing eye problems that may result in vision loss?

You may see him or her struggle with everyday activities, such as driving, cooking, personal care activities, socializing, or shopping. You're worried about safety; you don't know how he or she will remain independent. You don't know how to express your concerns or what to do.

For the young adult with vision loss, your concern may be whether he or she will be able to live independently, secure employment, be self-reliant, pursue their dreams and ambitions, and be able to support themselves and a family.

For an adult, your concern may be how to maintain employment, continue his or her personal interests and desired lifestyle, and remain independent and active participants in family, social and community life.

For the older person, the loss of vision may be complicated by other conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, a heart condition, reduced self-confidence, impaired mobility, or the loss of a spouse, home, or lifelong friends. Yes, they've visited eye doctors and been told "It's no longer safe for you to cook or drive any more," or "Why don't you think about moving in with the family, or have someone live with you?" or "Maybe it's time to consider a nursing home."

Feelings and Coping with Vision Loss

Your loved ones may have many mixed, confused and conflicting feelings, including a reduced sense of control over their lives; a fear of decreased independence; a loss of privacy; and a concern that others may view them differently.

Some individuals may feel overwhelmed, afraid of the future, and unsure as to how they can "fix" their situation independently. Others may feel a strong desire to do whatever needs to be done to regain control of their lives and to continue living independently. Some persons, regardless of what they are feeling, may be reluctant to share their thoughts with others.

As someone who cares, what can I do?

Talk with your loved one and focus specifically on the issues that trouble him or her the most. See Helping Family and Friends to understand the emotional impact of vision loss on the family.

You can begin by experimenting together with one or two the daily activities, such as:

Learn more ... as someone who cares!

Dialog in the Dark

Immersion Gallery What's it like to "see" using non-visual senses? Visit Dialog in the Dark and experience being led by blind guides through a series of darkened galleries that replicate everyday experiences. learn more....

Caregiving: A Daughter's Dilemma

Paul & Dorothy When my parents were in their 80s, my brother and I noticed how time was finally catching up with them, and this vital, energetic pair were indeed less able to do things on their own. Sure, my father still climbed up on the roof to fix a leak and he still drove from Indiana to Florida for the winter. But was it really safe? Read the full story...

"My Story..." Interviews with People Who are Living with Vision Loss

"There's so much left for me to do …" tells the story of Fred Olver, an author, rehabilitation specialist, and backyard barbecue enthusiast who became blind as a result of his premature birth.