The maturing process demands constant adjustment of self, our identity and where we fit in the world. Not everyone copes in the same way. Each has had unique experiences throughout her life and each will interpret and understand the changing world in her own way. Many have always met the challenges of life and will likely continue to do so. Others who may have been defeated by life's challenges can succumb to depression, despair and isolation.
Vision loss can be one of the changes the older person experiences.
It can explode the long-established and comfortable relationship the individual has with her body. When vision loss is associated with even normal physiological changes, it challenges the person's perception of self. When vision change is associated with more complicated physical conditions, it definitely challenges the person's ability to function safely within a changing world. This chapter will outline some of the normal changes associated with aging. It will describe some of the more common emotional reactions blind and visually impaired people have had to vision change.