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Books: Reading options for people with sight loss
Posted May 2026
Sight loss and blindness are often misunderstood. Many assumptions are based on outdated ideas, stereotypes or a lack of everyday exposure to people with sight loss. The reality is far more varied.
Here, we challenge 20 of the most common myths and share the facts behind them. These myths may be well-meaning, but they can shape how people with sight loss are treated, understood and included.
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What sight loss really looks like
Everyone who is blind can’t see anything at all
Total blindness is actually quite rare. Many people who are registered blind have some usable vision, such as light, shapes, colours or movement, rather than seeing “total blackness”.
All sight loss happens in the same way
Sight loss exists on a spectrum. Different conditions affect vision in different ways, and even people with the same diagnosis can experience sight loss very differently.
Sight loss only happens at birth, through accidents or in older age
Sight loss can affect people at any stage of life. Causes include genetic conditions, injury, stroke, diabetes and many other medical factors.
“Surely you have sight if you can do that…”
People with sight loss often learn alternative ways to do everyday tasks. Being able to do something doesn’t mean someone isn’t visually impaired, it means they’ve adapted.
Accessing information and technology
Accessing text is the same for everyone with sight loss
People with sight loss use a wide range of tools to read, including large print, magnifiers, screen readers, AI technology and braille. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
Blind people can’t use mobile phones or screens
Modern technology is highly accessible. Screen readers, voice assistants, magnification and accessibility settings allow many people with sight loss to use smartphones, tablets and computers independently.
All blind people read braille
Braille is an important skill for some people, but not everyone with sight loss uses or needs it. Reading methods depend on individual vision, education and personal preference.
People with sight loss don’t use glasses
Many people with sight loss still wear glasses to make the most of their remaining vision, reduce eye strain or help with specific tasks.
‘Super senses’ automatically get sharper
Other senses don’t magically improve, but people can learn to use them differently or more effectively with practice, training and confidence.
Mobility, aids and visible differences
Everyone with sight loss uses a cane or guide dog
Not everyone needs or chooses to use mobility aids. You often can’t tell if someone has sight loss just by looking at them. Also, not all canes look the same. You can find out more about canes in our blog here.
Bone conduction headphones mean hearing loss
Bone conduction technology doesn’t indicate hearing loss. Many people use it for safety, privacy, comfort or accessibility, including people with full hearing.
Work, education and independence
People with sight loss can’t work or have limited job options
In reality, people with sight loss work across a huge range of roles, including office jobs, tech, education and creative industries, often with reasonable adjustments or assistive technology.
People with sight loss can’t go to university
With the right support, adjustments and accessible resources, many people with sight loss attend university, gain qualifications and succeed academically.
People with sight loss can’t live independently
With the right support, tools and adaptations, many people with sight loss live independently, manage their own homes and make their own choices.
Social interaction, communication and behaviour
People with sight loss can always recognise your voice
Voice recognition isn’t guaranteed, especially out of context or in noisy environments. It’s always helpful to say who you are, unless you can guarantee they will recognise you in a familiar environment.
You should speak differently to people with sight loss
People with sight loss don’t need simplified language or to be spoken to via someone else. Clear, respectful communication, just as you would with anyone, matters most.
You shouldn’t use everyday language
It’s perfectly fine to use everyday phrases like “Did you watch that last night?” or “See you later.” If someone prefers different wording, they’ll let you know, and it’s always best to follow their lead.
Lifestyle, hobbies and everyday life
People with sight loss don’t enjoy certain hobbies or entertainment
People with sight loss enjoy art, sport, cinema, TV, theatre and live performances, including running marathons, creating artwork and attending accessible events.
Travelling isn’t possible
While travel can require more planning, accessible transport, navigation tools and support make local, national and international travel possible for many people with sight loss.
People with sight loss don’t care about style or home décor
Style, self-expression and personal space can matter to everyone. Lots of people with sight loss absolutely care about fashion, design and how their homes look and feel.
Having sight in one eye means you can’t drive
Many people with vision in one eye are legally allowed to drive, provided they meet the DVLA’s visual standards. This includes having adequate visual acuity and field of vision. It’s always assessed individually.
Eating carrots makes you see better!
Sadly, eating endless carrots won’t give you super vision. This myth dates back to World War II propaganda, not medical fact. While carrots are good for general eye health as part of a balanced diet, they won’t cure sight loss or dramatically improve vision, no matter how heroic the vegetable.
Seeing the Person, Not the Myth
Sight loss and blindness aren’t one-size-fits-all experiences. The more we challenge misconceptions, the easier it becomes to create a society where people with sight loss are understood, respected and supported to live the lives they choose.
If you’re unsure about how someone experiences sight loss, the best approach is simple: ask, listen and keep an open mind. By replacing assumptions with understanding, we can all help break down barriers and change perceptions for the better.
