Author Description

This is a comprehensive, highly readable guide for the blind and vision impaired, their sighted families and friends, professionals, service providers and employers. It shows how someone can successfully adjust to vision impairment, and dispels fears, misinformation and prejudices. The book has 18 chapters divided into three parts. In the first part, I look at some of the main causes of vision loss, and discuss the complex psychological aspects of blindness and how to overcome grief, fear and anxiety. I also examine the disempowering nature of sighted people's attitudes and explain how those with vision impairment can assert their own independence. In part two, I look at education, work, parenting, the teenage years and dating, gender and schooling to provide practical illustrations of how to manage sight loss. I use many insights gained from discussion groups to show the range and depth of experiences, insights and solutions in these important areas. Part three offers sensible advice on being independent in the home, keeping mobile, finding the latest technology, and working with hobbies. Practical tips cover cooking, cleaning, applying make-up, shaving, working in the shed, shopping, white canes, guide dogs, public transport, apps and software, the best gadgets, and many more aspects affecting day-to-day life.