Seniors with Vision Loss: Resources for Independence

The loss of vision in adult years can have a dramatic effect on daily life and independence. The sites in this section advise on dealing with the emotional and psychological reactions to vision loss. Seniors and their families and friends will find information on grief, depression and the process of emotional adjustment.

Below is a list of topics you'll find in this section. Click on a title to jump to a specific topic.

Adjusting to Vision Loss

AMD and Depression
AMD Alliance International
Information on aged-related vision loss, its psycho-social aspects, depression, and finding support; includes a review of the literature.

Coping with Vision Loss
VisionAware
Information on the effects of vision loss on oneself and others; includes online video.

Emotional Adjustment to Vision Loss
VisionAware
Advice for coping with vision loss, its emotional adjustments, and the reactions of families and friends; includes blog posts and personal stories.

Handling the News About Your Vision
VisionAware
A look at common reactions to learning of vision loss, with an online video featuring one woman’s adjustment and her path to independence.

Normal Vision Changes
VisionAware
Although many age-related vision changes are normal, they can cause problems by interfering with a wide range of everyday activities. This reference sheet from VisionAWARE explains common vision changes and provides some coping strategies

Psychosocial Aspects of the Adjustment Process
Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services
Phases of the adjustment process and the role of professionals.

Saving Lives: The Impact of Vision Loss in Later Life
Macular Degeneration Support
Age-related macular degeneration’s impact on vision, function, social life, and emotions; the role of vision rehabilitation.

Self-Esteem and Adjusting with Blindness
Hadley School for the Blind
An online course about maintaining self-esteem when coping with the changes that come with blindnesss.

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Adjusting to Vision Loss: Organizations & Resources to Explore

Peer Support Groups and Other Resources
VisionAware
Resources for those who are experiencing vision loss and their caregivers.

VisionAWARE Self Help for Vision Loss
American Foundation for the Blind (AFB)
Practical, hands-on information to enhance quality of life and independence for adults with vision loss, their families and friends, caregivers, and vision professionals.

For more information, see Rehabilitation and Adventitious Blindness

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Research: Adjusting to Vision Loss

The Greatest Generation Meets Its Greatest Challenge: Vision Loss and Depression in Older Adults
Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness, 99(4), 2005
Advice for professionals working with older adults with vision loss; includes recognizing depression, addressing multiple health concerns, and working collaboratively with health and elder services providers. (Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)

Psychosocial Intervention for Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Pilot Project
Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness, 2006
This study found that a problem-focused intervention was more effective in promoting adaptation than an intervention that focused on feelings and emotions.

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