VisionAware offers information and guidance on a wide range of topics on living with vision loss, understanding services, and learning what is possible with vision loss.

The Getting Started Guide produced by APH is a downloadable and printable road map to follow when you or someone you love is new to vision loss and is not sure where to turn or what to do first.

Request a copy of the Getting Started Guide

APH offers a comprehensive, categorized list of all services in all 50 states.

However, we recommend you call the APH Connect center for individual guidance as the list contains organizations that do not meet the needs of adults with vision impairment.

APH ConnectCenter

Many eye diseases and conditions will have organizations which focus on resources to support patients with information on research and treatment.  

National Eye Institute: 

Browse an alphabetical database of eye conditions and diseases.  Learn about symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments. 

Mayo Clinic: 

Browse an alphabetical database.  This database is not specific to eye conditions.  Learn about symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments. 

Support groups provide a wealth of information and support to people with vision loss and their families.  Connecting with peers is taking a positive step towards being adjusted to vision loss.  

Community support groups:

Often available through local senior centers, libraries, or organizations that provide services to people who are blind or have low vision. Offer a way for people experiencing vision loss to find support and meet others like them.  To find out what options are near you, contact your local state services [link to TTBB services by state].  Often a google search “vision loss support groups near me” or “low vision support group” will come up with results.  

Virtual Support and Discussion Groups: 

Many in-person groups may have phone-in options for all or part of the year—be sure to ask if this is an option for any in-person groups you find. 

HadleyHelps.org:

Hadley is a non-profit organization with a wide range of topic-based discussion groups specific to living with vision impairment.  Participation is free. 

Well Connected:

Virtual programs free to adults over 60 available by phone or over the internet—a low vision support group is only one of many. Automatic phone calls can be set up so that a participant never has to remember to call. 

Consumer groups are organizations whose members are blind or have low vision. These organizations advocate for policies, provide educational opportunities, and often sponsor local chapters where members can meet each other.  

American Council of the Blind (ACB)

Advocates for policies to promote independence for people who are blind or have low vision. They also offer local and state chapters where members can network and meet others who are also experiencing vision loss.  

National Federation of the Blind (NFB)

The oldest and largest organization for people who are blind or have low vision in the United States. They advocate for policy priorities, provide educational opportunities, and offer state and local chapters where members can meet other people who are blind or have low vision.