Maintaining social connection with low vision

Experiencing vision loss can feel like an unexpected narrowing of the world, especially if these changes impact your existing daily routines or coincide with significant periods of change such as job or relationship change. You may be unsure about how to reconnect with hobbies or spend more time with others while living with low vision. It’s natural to worry about becoming isolated, but feeling connected and involved remains just as important, and very much within reach.

Keeping connected with those close to you

Navigating social connection with low vision can take a bit of trial and error to figure out what works best for you now, rather than what has always worked in the past. You may not yet feel comfortable meeting new people while working some of these things out so spending time with family, friends, and others you are already familiar with can be a great way to maintain meaningful social connection. It may also feel more comfortable for you to experiment with what you need with people who you already trust.

Here are some simple tips on managing these connections with low vision:

• Choosing a meeting place that is convenient to you; whether that means it is close to public transport, within walking distance, or easy for you to carpool with someone.
• Planning ahead and arriving early to reduce anxiety.
• Choosing a familiar meeting place to manage uncertainty and build confidence.
• Scheduling meet ups around when you feel most comfortable, for example reducing nighttime travel if you feel less confident in reduced lighting.
• Hosting a meet up in your home to take the stress out of travelling and have more control over your environment, such as adjustable lighting.
• Utilise phone or video call to connect, if leaving your home isn’t practical or desired. SeeWay offers free online skills training if you are interested in building confidence using your phone, tablet, or computer.

Participating in hobbies and activities

Another great way to maintain social connection is through hobbies and activities; whether you’re rediscovering something you once loved, finding a new passion, or simply wanting to meet others with similar interests. Living with vision loss doesn’t mean giving up the things you enjoy, but it may involve adapting them.

Here are some ways hobbies and activities can be accessible to you:

• Book clubs, or similar groups, can help you build new connections with like-minded people. Online or in-person meetings allow you to choose what suits your needs. Many books are available to download as an ebook or audiobook, read our 'audiobooks' article to find out more.
• Drawing or colouring are low maintenance and relaxing hobbies that can be easily adapted by using bold-lined colouring books or drawing and colouring apps on your phone or tablet.
• Local council or community centre programs offer a variety of inclusive activities, from gentle exercise classes to social lunches, and are a great way to experiment with what interests you. Arriving early allows you to familiarise yourself with the space and choose the most suitable place for you. Inviting someone along with you can reduce the stress of a new environment and provides a good bonding opportunity.

Hobbies and activities can also help add some structure into your schedule, which can be helpful if you are finding it difficult to adapt to changing daily routines. As someone living with low vision, the TripView app on my iPhone is my best friend; it helps me navigate trains and busses to get to my favourite cafés and my weekly Pilates classes. Visit our 'getting around independently' topic for more information on accessing the community with low vision. 

Communicating your needs

Whether you’re meeting with loved ones or wanting to engage with others in the community, communicating your needs can play an important role in helping you feel better connected and included. People are often willing to help but may not know how; sharing your needs with them can make a huge difference.

This may include:

• Requesting to be close to the instructor or organiser of group classes or activities during demonstrations.
• Asking for an activity to be adapted so it is easier to complete and enjoy.
• Requesting specific meeting places or assistance with transport when meeting with family and friends.

Communicating these needs can help others in your life understand you better and opens opportunities for accommodations that you may not have thought of yourself or can develop if your needs change, contributing to a safer and more enjoyable experience.

Maintaining social connection can look different for everyone navigating life with vision loss. When a friend of mine experienced changes to their vision, they spent an increased amount of time at home. It took them time to adjust at their own pace, find what works for them, and be open to connection in new ways. Like everything, confidence comes from practice and exposure; small steps such as making a phone call or accepting an invitation can help keep your social world active, meaningful, and fulfilling. 

If you are experiencing feelings of loneliness or isolation and wish to seek further support, SeeWay offers access to free mental health support.