Not being able to see or having very low vision is not a homogeneous experience.  The word ‘blindness’ refers to a very diverse group of people who have either suddenly or gradually, completely or almost completely, lost one of their most important senses, their sight, either at birth or due to illness, an accident or trauma.

Not being able to see causes many stumbling blocks in everyday life: personal care, access to information, hobbies and social contact, doing your shopping etc. Elderly who become blind after a long illness are often even more vulnerable.  For example, learning braille is often too big a challenge later in life. Luckily there are many aids that can support blind people in every phase of their lives and ensure that they experience the maximum level of independence and self-confidence.