Supporting the Mental Health of Someone with Low Vision
Disclaimer: We are an independent entity and not affiliated with any specific hospital, clinic, or healthcare institution. The information provided is for general purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available. You are not alone, and support can make a difference. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional. Dial 988 and the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline will connect you with trained professionals who can help.
Mental health is an important part of well-being, especially for people living with low vision. Unfortunately, research shows people with visual impairments are at increased risk of experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, & loneliness.
Talking about mental health problems does not increase the likelihood that someone will experience them. On the contrary, ignoring or choosing to be silent about mental health can lead to worse outcomes. It can feel daunting to talk about mental health, but there are tangible steps that can help you support your loved ones with low vision.
Listen with Empathy
Vision loss is often accompanied by a sense of grief. Whether it happens acutely or gradually, vision loss may lead to a loss of independence and function that decreases overall quality of life. If a loved one has experienced or is experiencing vision loss, it can feel like a life-changing and isolating experience. Allowing the person to express their sadness, frustration, anger, or other emotions fully is an important part of coping with loss.
Even those who lost their vision years ago likely still experience ongoing difficulties due to their disability, as we live in a society built by and for people with high acuity vision. Navigating life with low vision can be a daily challenge, and listening to the concerns of others can help us identify ways to change our surroundings to be more friendly to their needs.
Encourage Social Connection
Low vision can impact an individual’s ability to interact with others in multiple ways. Vision plays an important role in human social interaction, and many must readjust the way they relate to others. You can support your loved one by inviting them and other friends to participate in activities that do not rely on high acuity vision, such as having coffee or discussing a podcast together. Some cities have low vision support groups or organizations where people with visual impairment share their stories, enjoy community, and engage in advocacy together.
If local resources are unavailable, one online resource to try is Hadley, a site that offers free discussion groups for people with low vision. This site includes groups on various topics, including technology, daily living, and leisure activities: https://hadley.edu
Explore ways to help your loved one maintain their hobbies and skills. Some activities can be adapted to less visually-dependent mediums, such as switching from reading to audiobooks or using assisted technology and different techniques for cooking with low vision. Finding ways to continue doing the things they love can be a great way to build resilience and support mental health.
Maintain General Health and Well-Being
In addition to mental wellness, other facets of health are important to support at the same time. People with low vision may experience difficulty staying active. Finding safe, effective, and fun ways to stay active can reduce stress and bolster both mental and physical health. One resource specifically for low vision individuals is Blind Alive, an audio-based fitness program tailored to individuals with visual impairments: https://blindalive.com
Good nutrition also improves well-being and decreases the risk of other health complications. Maintaining care for any other existing conditions can help prevent future issues. Helping your loved one find ways to stay active and build productive habits can lead to gains in their general health, mood, and longevity.
Promote Independence
Vision loss can take away a great deal of an individual’s autonomy. Regaining function and independence can help people recover parts of their lives that are productive and meaningful. Rehabilitation conducted by eye care professionals (ophthalmologists, optometrists, low vision specialists) and occupational therapists can help maximize existing vision. Some organizations host programs which aim to help people with low vision adapt to normal life. These programs teach about technology, Braille, white cane usage, and different employment options. Looking into your local programming can help find a course or organization that fits your and your loved one’s needs.
Seek Professional Help When Needed
There is no simple solution when caring for a loved one and their mental health. If you see signs of depression (persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, irritability, thoughts about suicide), encourage your loved one to seek professional help. A psychiatrist, therapist, or other trained mental health professional can provide a life-changing addition to the care team.
As a caregiver, it is important to support your own mental health and well-being as well. Supporting a loved one with low vision can be challenging, but your care makes a difference.