Everyone’s sight loss is different. Some people can see nothing at all, others have lost their central vision, others their peripheral (i.e. side) vision, others have only lost vision on one side. Some people need a lot more light to help see better, others see more when the lighting is dimmer.  

Ask the person if there is anything you can do differently so that they can see you better. It’s usually best not to sit with your back to a window If some do not have a full field of vision (common with stroke sufferers), ask them where you should see so that they can see the whole of you. 

Verbal vs non-verbal cues 

Often the person will not have enough sight to be able to see your non-verbal communication and this can have a big impact on how you come across. They will not see your gestures, facial expressions, nods or smiles, so you will need to convey those cues in another way.  

Use your voice to convey the feeling of what you are saying, or state how what they have said has made you feel. Verbal cues such as “uh huh” or “I see” (instead of nodding) can show that you have understood them and are following what they are saying. 

If you are doing something, tell them, so that they are not left wondering what they can hear. For example, say “I’m taking my pen and paper out of my bag so I can make notes” or “I am going to give you the object into your left hand”. Make sure that they can feel your presence, so they are not left wondering where you are or what you are doing.  

Before you go  

Often people do not have enough vision to read any appointment letter you send, so you may need to arrange things over the phone. It is likely that they will not have enough vision to check who it is at the door, or read your name badge, so think about how you can reassure them that it is you and not a stranger they are letting into their home. Perhaps ring them when you are near to let them know when you are arriving, or make sure you are on time. If you need to make a follow-up appointment, check if they can retrieve messages on their phone.