My family wants to help me, but they're doing too much. What should I do?

If your vision loss is recent, your family and friends may be fearful when you try to do daily living tasks on your own, such as climbing stairs, preparing meals, or using household appliances. They may be overprotective or in “rescue” mode, regardless of the skills you’re still able to perform safely and independently.

Help Family and Friends Adjust to Your Vision Loss

Discuss the tasks you’re capable of handling alone or with minimal help, as well as the activities for which you require assistance.  In the beginning, you may have to keep reminding your family members and friends about your capabilities and lifetime of experience; remember, too, that it may be difficult for them to “let go” without feeling hurt or rejected.

It also helps if you take the time to explain why you’re able to see better on some days than on others; for example, perhaps you see better on cloudy days because the glare from the sun can temporarily “blind” you and affect your ability to function. 

If you have age-related macular degeneration (or AMD), it’s helpful to explain that while you can’t see faces because of problems with your central (or straight ahead) vision, you can still walk outdoors safely because your peripheral (or side) vision is still intact and useful. If you or your family have questions about AMD, you may find the Are You AWARE? newsletter's special issue devoted to AMD helpful.

Your Vision Rehabilitation Options

For more information about vision rehabilitation options, including consumer self-help groups, vision rehabilitation self-study courses, or training at your local vision rehabilitation facility, see Vision and Services, State Rehabilitation Agencies, and How to Find Vision Rehabilitation Services in Your Home Area/Resources. Even if you’re not sure these services can benefit you, it’s a good idea to become familiar with the range of rehabilitation options that are available locally.