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Visual Impairment; How it feels, Myths and Facts

The onset of sight loss takes many forms and is a deeply personal experience with no two cases being the same. Feelings that people experience with the onset of sight loss are a deep Sense of Loss, Disorientation, Depression, Anger, Inadequacy, Loss of Dignity, Isolation and Frustration.  Some people don’t see in the dark - others are badly affected by bright sunlight. Some have a restricted field of vision, whether peripherally, centrally or patchy loss, but most experience a loss of contrast. Two people with the same eye condition will cope in different ways. Sight varies - some days we see far better than on others.  Blindness and partial sight are formally defined terms which relate to the quality of vision but blindness does not necessarily mean the absence of sight.

Myths and facts - is it true what they say about vision?
Myth 1: Regular watching TV or reading strains the eyes and sight wears out if used too much.
The Facts: Eyes cannot be worn out by use! Eyestrain is due to tiredness which can be overcome by rest or by changing activity. Looking at the same thing for a long time can be very tiring!

Myth 2: Reading or working in dim light will damage the eyes and electric light is also bad for them.
The Facts: Reading in dim or electric light won’t damage your eyes, but you may tire quickly if you concentrate for too long. A light level that is comfortable to use – not too bright, not too dim - is likely to give you the best level of vision.

Myth 3: If I am registered as partially sighted or sight impaired it means that I will lose all of my sight.
The Facts: Registration as being partially sighted is merely a description of how well you see, giving no indication of how your vision will change. Most people retain substantial residual vision - very few people who are registered as blind have no sight at all.

Visual Impairment - a new beginning
Many people who become visually impaired or blind, experience a time of emotional turmoil; this is natural but it need not persist. With help towards re-adjustment they are able to continue with their lives and enjoy pastimes and hobbies, new and old. A few simple changes may be all that is required. For example, making sure that things are kept in a certain place and returned there after use, or just making sure there is ample light, avoiding glare and using colour and tonal contrast. On occasions magnifying or telescopic lenses are appropriate and perhaps other more specialised equipment such as liquid level indicators, talking microwave ovens or specialist document readers can help.

Visually Impaired people will benefit as technology becomes more user friendly, enabling everyone to keep in touch, stay informed and cope with the increasing demands of life.

Ultimately, although visual impairment and blindness are serious life changing conditions, with the right help and support, and a willingness to accept a challenge, the feelings of loss and its implications can be overcome. People with visual impairment can continue to enjoy an independent and fulfilling lifestyle. The East Suffolk Association for the Blind is an independent, local charity specifically dedicated to helping such people achieve this goal.