All over the world millions of people are experiencing vision loss, becoming overwhelmed by their changing vision, and struggling to find ways to maintain their independence. They are becoming discouraged that they cannot achieve personal or workplace success simply because of their visual impairment. Whether you have experienced vision loss all of your life or if you have recently developed low vision, there are tons of ways to learn to live independently and achieve your goals.
So, what exactly is low vision? Low vision is a term that commonly refers to visual activity that is 20/70 or poorer in the better-seeing eye. In other words, if you have low vision, even with regular glasses, contact lens, medicines, or surgery, it can be difficult to perform everyday activities.
Fortunately, there are special low vision devices and vision rehabilitation services available to help you adjust to your new vision. Low vision devices and assistive technology will help you to continue to perform everyday activities, while rehabilitation services allow you to continue to live independently and maintain quality of life. Regardless of where you are in your journey, it is important to take advantage of these services. This is the first step in achieving success.
But what if you already understand your low vision? Are you letting your vision loss put your life on hold? Or are you continuing to reach for your goals?
Whether you are interested in finding gainful employment, going back to school, volunteering, or any other interest, make sure you are preparing yourself for success. As long as you set realistic goals for yourself and have the right preparation, there is no way you won’t achieve them.
If you are looking for a new job or advice for working in your current position, check out the resources available from APH CareerConnect. A great place to start would be to review some frequently asked questions about the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Don’t fret, my friends. While vision loss can disrupt your life, you should NOT let it put your life on hold. It may be challenging, but there are many people just like you who are making it happen everyday. Need proof? Check out these success stories of individuals with vision loss!
Related Articles:
- “February is Low Vision Awareness Month”
- “Employment Options for People with Visual Impairments and Multiple Disabilities”
- “Newly Blind or Visually Impaired? Read These Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Regarding Transportation to Work”
- “How Students with Low Vision Read and Write”
Check out the February Edition of AccessWorld for information on low vision assistive technology!