In Focus: Blind and visually impaired face higher risk of loneliness

A report commissioned by Fight for Sight and the Vision Foundation identified that people who were blind or vision impaired were three times more likely to experience loneliness.

Researchers at Abertay University in Dundee gathered evidence and testimony from blind or vision impaired people who highlighted how it affected them. Respondents said low self-confidence and self-worth caused them to withdraw from society, which exacerbated feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Eleanor Southwood, director of impact and external affairs, at Fight for Sight and the Vision Foundation, said: ‘This report helps us understand the lived experiences of loneliness and isolation for blind and vision impaired people.