Adjusting to visual impairment

Adjustment to visual impairment occurs in three phases: preimpact (following vision loss but before the person is aware of the loss), impact (realization of the loss), and acceptance (learning to work within the limitations of the impairment). The factors leading to the realization of the vision loss are important because they help the person define the event and give it meaning. Those who cannot discuss these factors have not begun to adjust. By discussing the criteria for adjustment that each person holds, nurses would be better able to design programs to help meet their goals.