More than 3 million Americans are currently living with glaucoma—a group of eye diseases that cause irreversible optic nerve damage and permanent vision loss. Most glaucoma patients require some level of assistance, and that assistance usually comes from a close family member.

If you are someone who is now in the position of caring for a loved one with glaucoma, you probably have some questions about what your loved one is going through and how you can help them. Here are some helpful tips for glaucoma caregivers to get you started. 

What do I need to know as a caregiver?

As a glaucoma caregiver, it’s important to understand that your loved one is likely to experience both physical and emotional changes and challenges. There are some things you should know about glaucoma and what to anticipate in your role as a caregiver. 

• Glaucoma is progressive and causes permanent vision loss but can often be slowed with treatment.
• There are several types of glaucoma, and they may affect vision differently.
• People with glaucoma typically lose their peripheral vision first. They may retain 20/20 central vision and still be able to do many of their usual activities, especially if the disease was caught early.
• Your loved one’s ophthalmologist should specialize in glaucoma and be someone your loved one feels comfortable with and trusts.
• Your loved one may require transportation to and from eye doctor appointments, especially for exams involving eye dilation.
• If your loved one has recently received their diagnosis, they may feel scared, angry, frustrated, depressed, grief-stricken, and/or need extra emotional support.
• The more you know about your loved one’s type of glaucoma and how it progresses, the better care and assistance you can provide. Learn as much as you can.
• If your loved one is accustomed to being completely independent, they may find it difficult to ask for assistance. Speak with them about their wants and needs. 

What are some practical ways I can help?

Some ways to help your loved one with glaucoma include:

• Help them purchase low-vision aids. There are two categories of low-vision aids, optical and non-optical. Optical aids include magnifiers for reading and other near tasks; digital text-to-speech devices; and handheld or hands-free telescopes for distant objects. Non-optical aids may include audiobooks or large-print items, such as books, cards, and clocks.
• Accompany your loved one to the eye doctor and take notes for them.
• Make in-home modifications by optimizing lighting; organizing and decluttering; posting an easy-to-read list of important phone numbers in a prominent place; and marking stairs, slopes, and other hazardous areas with bright, contrasting colors.
• Shop and run errands together so your loved one feels social and productive.
• Research transportation alternatives for your loved one when you’re not available.
• Assist your loved one with learning their treatment regimen and make it a habit.
• Take on chores, such as cleaning, cooking, laundry, and paying bills. 
• Walk a few steps ahead and at a slow pace when with your loved one so they can follow your cues regarding the terrain. 
• Alert them to steps, curbs, cracks, and other potential hazards that might be difficult to see.
• Be patient. They may not be able to see dirt and disrepair or be able to perform all the jobs you’re accustomed to relying on them to do.

Practicing self-care as a caregiver

As your loved one’s vision worsens over time, you may find that caregiving starts requiring more time and energy. Practice self-care and ask for help when you need it, whether from family and friends or a home aide service.

While you may not be the one with glaucoma, the disease affects you, too. It’s critical for you and your loved one to talk about your experiences and feelings honestly and without judgment. Taking care of your health is important, too.

*Your Sight Matters. (2020). Tips for Caregivers for Glaucoma Patients. https://yoursightmatters.com/tips-for-caregivers-for-glaucoma-patients/

Any sources from outside of Prevent Blindness do not imply an endorsement from Prevent Blindness. The contents of the material used are the responsibility of the authoring organization, Responsum Health.