Supporting Seniors with Vision Loss: What It Means to Be Legally Blind and How to Help at Home in San Diego

Here in San Diego County, vision loss is a growing concern among older adults—especially those over 65, who make up more than half of all people in the U.S. considered legally blind. While vision changes can occur at any age, age-related eye conditions like macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy often emerge or worsen later in life, making everyday tasks more challenging and increasing safety risks at home.

When someone is classified as legally blind, it means their vision in the better eye is 20/200 or worse—even with corrective lenses. In practical terms, that’s seeing at 20 feet what someone with typical vision can see from 200 feet away. Many older adults with vision loss still retain some sight, but daily tasks may become difficult or unsafe—especially without support.

For families across Carmel Valley, Rancho Peñasquitos, Del Mar, Poway, Sorrento Valley, Solana Beach, and the surrounding North San Diego communities, knowing how to care for a loved one with declining vision can feel overwhelming. The good news? There are meaningful, effective ways to help.

The Value of In-Home Care for Visually Impaired Seniors

Most older adults want to stay in the comfort of their own homes for as long as possible, and in-home care makes that possible—even when vision loss is part of the picture.

Our care partners at Griswold Home Care for North San Diego are trained to assist clients who are blind or visually impaired, helping them maintain dignity, safety, and independence at home. Services can include:

• Assistance with morning routines like dressing, grooming, and medication reminders
• Safe mobility support to reduce the risk of falls, especially in stairways or unfamiliar areas
• Help with household tasks such as meal prep, light housekeeping, and laundry
• Personalized engagement, including reading aloud, playing music, or describing surroundings
• Organization and consistency, ensuring everyday items remain in predictable, easy-to-reach locations
• Clear verbal communication, since non-verbal cues or gestures may be ineffective

We also support clients and families adjusting to vision loss by reinforcing safe routines and helping build confidence with adaptive tools and techniques.

Home Modifications That Make a Difference

A few changes around the home can go a long way in supporting your visually impaired loved one. Here are some suggestions we often recommend to families in Rancho Santa Fe, Mira Mesa, and nearby:

• Remove clutter from walkways and entry points
• Use high-contrast markings on steps or important items
• Invest in large-print books or audio formats (San Diego Public Library branches often have extensive collections)
• Label appliances or pantry items with tactile markers
• Say your loved one’s name before speaking, to help them orient to the conversation

Local & National Resources for Vision Loss Support

Caring for someone who is blind or visually impaired isn’t something you have to navigate alone. Helpful resources include:

• Access to Independence – San Diego: Local nonprofit offering vision loss services, adaptive equipment training, and support groups
• Braille Institute San Diego: Free services for people with low vision
• Caregiver Action Network: Resources and support for family caregivers nationwide
• ADA National Network: Information on disability rights and services
• County of San Diego Aging & Independence Services: Local Area Agency on Aging that can connect you to vision-related resources

Compassionate Care in Your North San Diego Neighborhood

At Griswold Home Care for North San Diego, we’re proud to be your local resource for non-medical home care that adapts to each client’s unique needs—including vision challenges. Our care partners are trained in dementia care, sensory sensitivity, and trauma-informed support, with the compassion and professionalism that every family deserves.

Whether your loved one lives in Sorrento Valley, Solana Beach, or just down the street in Carmel Valley, we’re here to help them feel secure, respected, and empowered—right at home.

Reach out today to learn more about our in-home care services for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.