Driving and sight loss: Finding support when you can no longer drive
Driving is an integral part of everyday life for many people. In fact, there are almost 41 million licensed vehicles in the UK. For people living with sight loss who are unable to drive, a world where driving is so intertwined with everyday life presents practical and emotional challenges. These include accessing work, socialising, shopping, visiting loved ones or simply feeling independent. Many people have told us that not being able to drive is the number one issue they find most distressing about their sight loss.
The level of sight required for driving (using glasses and whether you have both eyes or one eye):
– being able to read a number plate from 20 metres away
– having a visual acuity of 6/12 on the Snellen scale
– and having an adequate field of vision, 120 degrees.
There is a legal duty to inform the DVLA of your sight loss. Driving with sight that doesn’t meet the requirements risks yourself and others, invalidates insurance and is against the law.
Although it can feel like a major blow to lose your ability to drive, there is support available and independence is possible.
Facing the emotional impact
It can be devastating when someone needs to stop driving or discovers they will never drive at all. Many feelings can be experienced including anger, depression or even denial. These are normal reactions to loss and pain. However, it is possible to find alternative ways of doing things and enjoy life.
An important part of accepting this new phase of your life can be to allow yourself to experience feelings of grief when they come up. This helps process the impact and over time the feelings will eventually pass. It is, however, normal to have moments of sadness or frustration. A client told us:
“It surprises me that even though I have never been able to drive and feel I have accepted this, I can feel a wave of anger out of nowhere about the situation, I have discovered this is very normal and so I let it come and go.”
Strong feelings are something many others experience. Driving represents many things, and its loss is a valid reason to experience grief.
Finding a supportive network
This can make a huge difference. Whether it is finding others living with sight loss who understand the issues you face or ensuring you don’t lose contact with loved ones and become isolated. Social connection is an important human need fundamental to our wellbeing. We run many social hubs across the region, so this might be a good starting place to meet new people. Also, we can assist you to find ways of using technology to stay connected.
Overcoming the practical issues
It is important to realise that not being able to drive does not mean you can’t go anywhere. There are other ways you can get from A to B.
Rehabilitation
If your sight loss is new or you are struggling with confidence in going out, rehabilitation may offer you the training to learn ways of safely navigating the world outside your front door. Get in touch with us and your Community Sight Loss Advisor can refer you to your local rehab officer if this is appropriate.
Bus passes and apps
Local councils across the region offer bus passes to people registered sight impaired, allowing you to travel for free. We can also support you in learning how to use apps on your mobile to help you plan journeys.
Trains
Trains are a realistic solution for many visually impaired and blind people and a Disabled Person’s Railcard will give you discounted fares. For details please visit: www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk or call 0845 605 0525.
You can also obtain sighted assistance at the start and end of your rail journey. You can do this by contacting GWR Passenger Assist on 0800 197 1329 or www.gwr.com/travel-information/passenger-assist
Support with driving to / during work
RNIB report that 76% of the general population are in paid employment, but only 27% of people registered with sight loss are. For those in work, the government offers support through the ‘Access to Work’ scheme. This can provide financial aid to purchase specialist equipment, employ support workers or cover the cost of taxis. Access to Work will agree an annual budget with you. This can be a huge help and can make the difference between working and not working. Details of the scheme can be found at www.gov.uk/access-to-work or call 0800 121 7479.
Disability benefits
You may qualify for Personal Independence Payments (PIP) or Attendance Allowance, depending on your age. These are non-means-tested government benefits aimed at supporting disabled people.
For PIP, there is a mobility element to support you with the costs of travel. If you are awarded the higher rate of the mobility element, you can use this payment to lease a new car if you have someone who can be your driver (for example a family member).
Attendance Allowance: www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance
PIP: www.gov.uk/pip
Motability: www.motability.co.uk
Blue Badges
If you are registered blind / severely sight impaired, you are eligible for a Blue Badge. The Blue Badge enables you to park closer to your destination and you can use it even if you are just getting a lift with a friend. For details about the scheme visit www.gov.uk/apply-blue-badge For questions about the Blue Badge please contact your local council.
Finally, we are here to help. If you need support with any issues raised above, then please contact us, our trained Community Sight Loss Advisors are ready to assist you.