Visual impairment is one of the most prevalent anddisabling conditions among older people, and yet verylittle research has been conducted that could inform thedevelopment of appropriate public services. In order toaddress this deficiency, Thomas Pocklington Trust fundedresearch to examine the housing and support needs of 400visually impaired people aged over 55.The study found that:? There is little professional recognition, or offers of help andadvice for the anxiety, depression, and sense of profoundloss that people experience with late onset of visualimpairment.? Both blind and partially sighted people need timely andholistic assessment, rehabilitation, affordable equipment andregular review.? People with sight loss do not wish to leave their homes.Home is the epicentre of a mental map that assistsorientation and continuity following sight loss.? Social isolation and lack of human contact are majorproblems for people with sight loss.? People with sight loss have poor knowledge of supportgroups, community services and/or specialist housingoptions for older people with visual impairment. Visual impairment is one of the most prevalent anddisabling conditions among older people, and yet verylittle research has been conducted that could inform thedevelopment of appropriate public services. In order toaddress this deficiency, Thomas Pocklington Trust fundedresearch to examine the housing and support needs of 400visually impaired people aged over 55.The study found that:? There is little professional recognition, or offers of help andadvice for the anxiety, depression, and sense of profoundloss that people experience with late onset of visualimpairment.? Both blind and partially sighted people need timely andholistic assessment, rehabilitation, affordable equipment andregular review.? People with sight loss do not wish to leave their homes.Home is the epicentre of a mental map that assistsorientation and continuity following sight loss.? Social isolation and lack of human contact are majorproblems for people with sight loss.? People with sight loss have poor knowledge of supportgroups, community services and/or specialist housingoptions for older people with visual impairment
