When vision changes, it can stir questions about the future, especially at work. Many people worry not just about how they’ll see, but how they’ll be seen. It’s reassuring to know that cross Australia, thousands of people with low vision continue to contribute in countless ways - teaching, nursing, accounting, managing teams, caring for others - often with small adjustments that make their work more comfortable and sustainable.

SeeWay client Roberta works as a nurse and said she felt unsure about her future in employment, but when she spoke with her manager, some helpful adaptions were made: better task lighting, larger text on screens, and a shift in some visual duties.

“It was a relief to realise I didn’t have to stop working,” she said. “I just had to do things a bit differently, and I’ll continue to monitor what changes I might need. Accessibility is a right, not something we should feel apologetic about needing.”

Understanding your rights and options

Under Australia’s Disability Discrimination Act, employers have a responsibility to make reasonable adjustments for employees with vision loss. Often, those adjustments are straightforward, like improved lighting, screen magnification, voice-to-text software, flexible scheduling, or changes in task allocation. What matters most is open communication and knowing that support is both a right and a possibility.

Sometimes, the hardest part is starting the conversation. Talking through your situation with a trusted colleague, family member, or counsellor first can help you feel clear about what you need and how to ask for it. SeeWay can help you access bulk billed counselling anytime. Visit our mental health support page to learn more.

Modern technology offers countless ways to make work easier

Screen readers and magnifiers: Most devices already have built-in accessibility tools you can try right away - such as Windows Magnifier or Narrator on PCs, VoiceOver on Apple devices, and TalkBack on Android phones. Free programs like NVDA also work well for reading or enlarging text on a computer screen.

Voice-controlled tools: Siri, Google Assistant and Microsoft Copilot can help with tasks like sending emails or searching for files.

Accessible office apps: Most workplace systems, including Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and Adobe Acrobat have built-in accessibility features such as high-contrast modes, enlarged cursors, and text-to-speech.

Lighting and ergonomics: Task lamps, anti-glare filters, and matte screens can make long hours more comfortable.

Digital-skills support: Community libraries, low-vision services and online programs offer free or low-cost training in these tools for anyone adjusting to vision change. SeeWay can also help you with this. Learn more by visiting our digital skills training page.

Shaping a more inclusive future

When people share their stories of continuing to work with low vision, they do more than inspire - they change expectations. They help colleagues, managers, and even policymakers see that inclusion is practical, achievable, and mutually beneficial.

Employment isn’t just about income. It’s about purpose, contribution, and connection. Vision loss might change how work looks, but it doesn’t erase its value. With the right awareness and adjustments, people can continue doing what matters most - in ways that feel safe, supported, and respected.

A loss of some vision needn’t mean a loss of employment.