Wellbeing

Vision loss impacts more than sight — it affects balance, confidence, mental health, energy, and connection. Well-being is about building strength from the inside out. It’s about protecting your physical health, supporting emotional resilience, and creating habits that help you live fully and confidently at every stage of your journey.

Nourish Your Body

Nutrition plays a powerful role in long-term eye and overall health.

• Focus on leafy greens, colourful vegetables, healthy fats, and whole foods that support eye and cardiovascular health.

• Maintain balanced blood sugar levels to protect both your vision and energy levels.

• Stay hydrated to reduce fatigue and support overall wellness.

Move for Strength and Balance

When vision changes, balance is often affected. Movement becomes essential.

• Incorporate balance exercises to strengthen stability and reduce fall risk.

• Engage in regular physical activity to improve coordination and confidence.

• Explore adaptive or inclusive sports to build both fitness and connection.

Track Changes with Confidence

Monitoring your vision can reduce anxiety and support early action.

• Use tools such as Amsler grids (where appropriate) to track changes between appointments.

• Notice patterns or changes and document them to discuss with your specialist.

• Recognise that stable periods are progress — and worth acknowledging.

Support Mental and Emotional Health

Depression and anxiety are real experiences for many people living with vision loss.

• Build a trusted support network of friends, family, and peers with lived experience.

• Connect with local or online communities to reduce isolation.

• Seek professional counselling or psychological support when needed — strength includes asking for help.

Travel with Confidence and Preparation

Preparation reduces stress, protects your comfort, and supports safe navigation.

• Research accessibility in advance, including lighting, layout, and transport options.

• Contact venues ahead of time to ask about access, seating, or audio description services.

• Carry preservative-free eye drops to prevent dryness, especially during flights or in air-conditioned environments.

• Pack hot or cold eye masks to manage fatigue, dryness, or irritation while travelling.

• Keep medications, prescriptions, and essential eye care items in your hand luggage.

• Allow extra time for navigation to reduce pressure and increase confidence.

Build Community and Belonging

Shared experience strengthens resilience.

• Engage with local low vision or blind communities.

• Participate in social activities, adaptive sports, or peer events.

• Remember that connection builds confidence.