Tips for Newly Diagnosed

Being told you have sight loss can feel overwhelming. You may have questions, worries, or uncertainty about what the future holds. That’s completely natural — and you are not alone. Vista is here to help you navigate the next steps and feel more confident about what comes next.

Give yourself time

It’s okay to feel a wide range of emotions, from shock and frustration to relief at finally having answers. There’s no right or wrong way to react. Allow yourself the time and space to adjust, and remember that it’s fine to ask for help at any stage.

Find out what support you’re entitled to

You may be eligible for benefits, specialist equipment, and practical services designed to help you stay independent.

We can:

Guide you through the process of getting a Certificate of Visual Impairment (CVI).
Help you access local and national support services.
Signpost you to advice on benefits and entitlements.

Connect with others

Hearing from people who’ve been through similar experiences can be reassuring and inspiring. Our social groups and community activities give you the chance to:

Share stories and tips.
Learn new skills.
Build friendships in a supportive environment.

Make small changes at home

Simple adjustments can make daily life easier and safer:

Improve lighting in key areas.
Add tactile markers to frequently used items.
Rearrange furniture to create clear walking routes.

Our Assessment and Rehabilitation team can give you practical tips and demonstrations tailored to your home.

Explore technology

You don’t have to be “techy” to benefit from assistive technology. From talking clocks and magnifiers to voice-controlled assistants and accessible apps, the right tools can make a big difference.

Our Tech Together service can help you choose and use technology with confidence.

We’re with you every step

Whether your sight loss happened suddenly or developed over time, Vista can:

Help you understand your diagnosis.
Explore your options for staying independent.
Connect you to services that make a real difference.

📞 Call us on 0116 249 8839 or email info@vistablind.org.uk to start getting the right support.