The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) understands that information is power. We are committed to connecting people to life-changing information, resources, local services, and a vibrant and supportive community.
That’s why AFB launched VisionAware—which is now stewarded by the American Printing House for the Blind (APH) ConnectCenter—a free, comprehensive resource for basic information about adjusting to vision loss, including tips for adapting your home and daily living. Adults who are losing their sight, their families, caregivers, healthcare providers, and social service professionals will all find rich content and practical tips on living with vision loss.
Recommended Links from VisionAware
- VisionAware helps adults who are blind or have low vision continue to live full and independent lives through timely informational services, tips and resources, and a free directory of services. There are also resources for family members, caregivers, healthcare providers, and social service professionals.
- Helping Relatives with Blindness or Low Vision Maintain Independence offers helpful tips, key information, and support options for those who play an important role in their loved ones' lives.
- The Getting Started guides provide helpful tips, techniques, and information for people living with blindness and vision loss. The 2020 versions, A Guide for People New to Vision Loss, are available online and as downloadable PDFs in both English and Spanish. The 2024 versions, A Guide for Families New to Blindness and Low Vision, provide ways to support raising your child at home, from birth to 3rd grade and from 4th to 12th grade.
- VisionAware also offers solutions for everyday issues such as traveling, reading, writing, and technology usage.
Other AFB Resources for Aging and Vision Loss
- The Visually Impaired Seniors’ Independent Travel Opportunities and Resources (Project VISITOR) study explored the challenges and solutions to independent travel for seniors with vision loss. Conducted in two phases, the project surveyed organizations and individuals across the United States to identify practices, challenges, and solutions concerning transportation.
- Visit our Fact Sheet on Aging, discussing how systems and services must be easier to use by older adults who are blind or have low vision.
- Access AFB's Tips and Resources for Helping Older People with Vision Loss article.
- Check out AFB's Statistics About Older People with Vision Loss, where you can find the estimates for older people with vision loss from two major surveys, the American Community Survey (ACS) and the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS).
- The Twenty-First Century Agenda on Aging and Vision Loss—a past initiative facilitated by the American Foundation for the Blind—was a dynamic, nationwide collaboration that started yielding results by bringing together the most significant national stakeholder organizations and experts. This coalition had a commitment to raising awareness, facilitating increased and improved services, and protecting and promoting the rights of seniors with vision loss to lives of enjoyment, inclusion, and independence.
For more information about Americans of all ages with vision loss, visit Statistical Snapshots from the American Foundation for the Blind.
