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Supporting people with vision loss: Practical guides for health care professionals

Supporting someone who is blind or has low vision can feel challenging at first, especially when you are unsure where to start. 

That’s why Vision Australia has developed two new Resource Guides designed specifically for Support Workers and Occupational Therapists. These guides break down the essentials and offer practical strategies to help you feel confident and well-equipped in your role. 

Both guides cover key topics that include understanding vision loss, common eye conditions, and the importance of following your client’s lead. They also explore real-world examples and practical approaches to providing person-cantered, respectful support.

For Support Workers: Building confidence and connection 

Our Support Workers Resource Guide offer simple, actionable advice to help you make a meaningful difference in your client’s daily life. Inside, you’ll find:

Communication and guiding tips

Learn how to communicate clearly, offer assistance respectfully, and guide someone safely and confidently in a range of settings.

Safety 

Discover effective strategies to identify and reduce potential hazards, helping to create a safe and comfortable space for your client, whether at home, at work, or in the community. 

Supports available to you 

Find out where to access training, peer support, and professional resources that strengthen your skills and confidence when supporting clients who are blind or have low vision.

Supports Workers resource guide

Access clear guidance and everyday tips to confidently support people who are blind or have low vision.

For Occupational Therapists: Enhancing independence and everyday living 

Our Occupational Therapists Resource Guide focuses on supporting people who are blind or have low vision to maintain independence and participate fully in everyday life. You’ll learn about: 

Collaboration with other vision specialists 

Understand how to work effectively with eye health professionals, orientation and mobility specialists, and assistive technology consultants to deliver holistic, team-based care. 

Supporting daily activities 

Explore adaptive techniques, environmental modifications, and assistive technologies that empower clients to continue doing the things that matter most to them. 

Supports available to you as an OT 

Access professional development opportunities and resources to help you stay up to date with best practices in vision loss rehabilitation and client-centred care.

Whether you’ve been working in health care for years and want to refresh your understanding, or are new to a career that supports people who are blind or have low vision, these guides are designed to meet you where you are.

Occupational Therapist resource guide

Strategies to help you enhance independence and daily living skills for people who are blind or have low vision.

By using these free Vision Australia resources, you will gain practical tools and insights that help provide support with confidence, compassion and respect, helping your clients to live the life they choose.