Seniors

Seniors

Accepting Change

As we age, so do our eyes and this may result in vision loss.  In fact, the majority of people who develop low vision or become legally blind are over 65.  Of course, adapting to changes in your eyesight can be difficult and may lead to fear, frustration, and feelings of isolation and helplessness.  Sometimes well-intentioned friends and family members may even contribute to these negative feelings because they too believe we are unable to care for ourselves.

A New Attitude

We at the NFB of Minnesota Seniors Division believe vision loss need not restrict your life.  Our experience is that with the correct training and encouragement, seniors with vision loss can, and do, continue to enjoy full and independent lives.

The secret lies in the AAA Approach: Acceptance, Attitude, and Alternative techniques. By learning to use some alternative techniques that employ senses of touch or hearing rather than sight, low vision seniors continue to do almost everything they wish.

Adopting Alternative Techniques

Thankfully,many of these clever alternatives are relatively easy to learn.  Blind and low vision seniors everywhere are successfully using practical nonvisual techniques to manage everyday life to retain and regain their independence.

You can:

  • find alternatives to driving
  • cook and clean
  • write letters
  • continue favorite hobbies
  • shop in stores and online
  • dial the telephone
  • use computers
  • read daily newspapers
  • organize and identify money
  • recruit and work with readers
  • travel for pleasure
  • get around safely and confidently

Next Steps: Make the most of our NFB resources.

Nearly all are free of charge!

  1. Reach out to one of your peers in the NFB of Minnesota Seniors Division
  2. Subscribe to NFB-NEWSLINE®, and read the newspaper again
  3. Join your local NFB of Minnesota chapter, and meet other low vision seniors
  4. Read our free NFB motivational literature about using alternative techniques
  5. Contact Blindness: Learning In New Dimensions (BLIND, Inc.) and State Services for the Blind, and learn about additional services in your community
  6. Visit Blindness: Learning In New Dimensions (BLIND, Inc.) to learn how to use a computer

Connect with Us!

Judy Sanders, President
E-mail: jsanders.nfb@comcast.net
Phone: (952) 232-8049‬