Your daughter may be feeling overwhelmed and concerned by your recent vision loss. She doesn't know how to help you other than to refer you to the local agency for the blind. Even though you are not "totally blind" you may have a vision impairment that is affecting your ability to do regular daily tasks at home and your daughter is worried.

Since you have expressed an interest in receiving help at home this is a possible first step toward vision rehabilitation. Before making any decisions, it may be a good idea for you and your daughter to take a tour of a local agency (see How to Find Services in Your Home Area) and find out more about the kind of services they offer, whether you would be eligible, and if they provide services in the home. The majority have professionals who are certified to provide specialized vision rehabilitation services at either the agency and/or your own home (see Who Provides Vision-Related Services?)

You might also consider asking the agency to give you a personalized assessment. During this time you could share with them any problems you're experiencing in your home, along with any other concerns. Once the assessment has been completed you will have the opportunity to accept or decline their offers of assistance. Again, the choice is always yours.

Remember, it is never too late to learn! Each day brings opportunities to benefit from and to use the wealth of your life experiences. Hundreds of thousands of older people around the world are showing us the importance of flexible living and being courageous in tackling the challenges and changes that life invariably throws our way.

Older adults, who initially hesitated or even resisted involving themselves with a vision rehabilitation agency or "agency for the blind," are surprised about how much they learned within a very short period of time. To be able to regain or enhance existing daily living skills, increase your confidence and independence makes the risk worthwhile for many, many people. You might want to consider exploring this option.