Visual Impairment
The symptoms of visual impairment, common myths about it, how it’s diagnosed and treated, and how to support someone with it.
Files
What’s in it
Symptoms
- Difficulty seeing clearly even when wearing glasses or contact lenses.
- Blurred vision, blind spots, or a loss of peripheral vision.
- Struggling to read small print or recognise faces in low light.
Age & Gender
- Risk increases with age, particularly for those over the age of 65.
- Females are slightly more likely to be affected than males.
Misconceptions
- It’s not a total lack of sight for everyone. Many have some vision.
- It’s not fixed by wearing stronger glasses or contacts.
- People don't always use a cane or a guide dog.
Diagnosis
- Optometrists use eye charts and cameras to check the retina.
- Visual field tests measure how much a person sees around them.
Treatment
- Surgery or injections can treat some specific causes of sight loss.
- Magnifiers, screen readers, and high-contrast tools help with daily tasks.
Support
- Introduce yourself when entering a room and say when you're leaving.
- Keep walkways clear of obstacles and don't move personal items.
- Offer to guide them by letting them take your arm.
This information isn't a diagnostic tool. If you recognise these symptoms in yourself or others, please contact a doctor.