Overview

Visual impairment refers to a range of vision differences that affect how a person sees and interacts with their environment, even with corrective lenses or medical treatment. Unlike total blindness, visual impairment often includes partial sight, low vision, blurred vision, limited visual fields, or difficulty with contrast, depth, or light sensitivity.

Visual impairment can be present at birth or develop over time due to illness, injury, or aging. Experiences vary widely, and vision may remain stable or change over time.

Common Experiences

Individuals with visual impairment may experience:

• Reduced visual clarity or blurred vision

• Difficulty with contrast, depth perception, or peripheral vision

• Sensitivity to light or glare

• Challenges with reading standard print or recognizing faces

• Fatigue from visual effort, especially in busy environments

Many visual impairments are not immediately visible, which can lead to misunderstanding or unmet support needs.

Support Looks Different for Everyone

Support for visual impairment focuses on accessibility, adaptation, and choice. Support may include:

• Magnification tools or adaptive technology

• Screen readers, large-print materials, or high-contrast formats

• Environmental adjustments such as improved lighting or clear signage

• Orientation support and navigation strategies

• Flexible expectations and inclusive design practices

Support works best when individuals can choose what tools and accommodations meet their needs.

For Families & Caregivers

Families and caregivers often assist with access planning, advocacy, and daily adaptations while supporting independence. Navigating schools, workplaces, and public spaces may require ongoing communication and collaboration.

Respect for autonomy and understanding of invisible challenges are key to meaningful support.

How Infinity Pathways Supports Visual Impairment

Infinity Pathways creates tools that help individuals and caregivers communicate access needs, document preferences, and share important information across environments. Our resources are designed to reduce barriers, promote clarity, and support confident participation in everyday life.

A Note on Language

Some individuals prefer the term “visual impairment” or “low vision,” while others may identify differently. At Infinity Pathways, we respect personal preference and use language that honors individual experience and choice.