Initial Needs:
First and foremost any man, woman or child who suddenly becomes visually impaired must learn to communicate more effectively than ever before. Chances are that you won't appear to be blind, which ironically creates another issue. Take steps to inform your family, friends, job and other people/places in your life. Explain as throughly as you can what the world looks like to you. Most people don't comprehend the obscurity of a faded world. This is something that takes time to adjust to.
Ask your family for assistance in setting up a plan to pay bills, write checks and provide phone numbers and other daily documents you'll need in big, bold print large enough to see.
Contact the local or state agency for the blind and request someone to come to your home. They can assess your needs and might be able to provide transportation and financial assistance. It is important to do this as soon as possible so that you can get on their list.
Adjusting Tips:
You will find that you must move more slowly now. Take your time with every day chores. Walk more slowly and hesitate more. It may take time for your mind to adjust. You might even see, “imaginary things,” which is called sensory deprivation. This is a common occurrence with people who have lost vision suddenly. It doesn't mean you are crazy! Your mind is adjusting to the lack of visual stimulation, and will in time rearrange its needs.
Get organized! Throw out unnecessary things. Have someone go through your medicine cabinet and sort through important thins which are needed on a daily basis. Use a felt tip permanent pen to label toothpaste, shampoo, lotion, etc. This will help you keep from having to question every tube you use. Keeping your cabinets and drawers neat and simply arranged will help make life easier!
If you have no transportation, put an ad in the local paper for a driver. You'll find that more people than not are willing to help without much cost.
As about audio books and get on the list to receive them regularly. The Texas Commission for the Blind offers this service as well as others.
Have a friend or family member do research on the various programs which may assist you. There are literally hundreds of resources, but you have to, “look,” for them. . .no pun intended.
Check to see if your computer has a program for the visually impaired. If not, get one. You will find that internet shopping is much easier, as is reading in general.
Things to Remember:
Keep life simple. Utilize every resource and program at your disposal. It isn't necessary to make this harder than it already is. Ask for help. In time, you will adjust and you may someday come to the place where you hardly think of the vision loss as being a loss. Keep the faith!
