06/09/2025
Debunking common misconceptions about blindness and low vision.
In today’s society, misconceptions about blindness and low vision are unfortunately widespread. These myths can create barriers and perpetuate misunderstandings, making it harder for those of us individuals in the blind community to navigate the world on our terms. Whether it's assumptions about what we can or cannot do, or the ways we are treated by others, these misconceptions can be frustrating and even damaging. Diverse Abilities asked members of the blind community to share their thoughts on the biggest misconceptions they face. Let’s dive into some of the most common ones and break them down.
“All people who are blind are completely blind”
One of the most common misconceptions is that all people that are blind have no vision at all. In reality, blindness exists on a spectrum. Only around 15% of us folks who are blind are completely blind with no light perception. Many others have partial vision, and some may use their remaining sight to assist with tasks. Just because someone identifies as blind doesn't mean we can't see anything, we may still have useful vision or rely on other senses like touch and hearing to navigate the world.
“People who are blind can’t do anything or are completely dependent “
Another harmful stereotype is that those of us who are blind are incapable of doing daily tasks like cooking, dressing ourselves or navigating independently. In truth, we can do nearly everything sighted individuals can; only we do it differently. From using adaptive technology or alternative techniques to relying on other senses, those of us who can’t see develop strategies to accomplish everyday activities. It's not about inability, it's about finding different solutions to challenges.
“You don’t look like you have a disability.”
Non apparent disabilities, including blindness, can often lead to the assumption that if a person “looks fine,” they must not have a disability. This assumption can be frustrating for those of us who navigate the world with blindness, as it denies the very real challenges we face every day. Just because we don’t have an outwardly apparent condition doesn’t mean we don’t experience significant barriers. Usually our biggest barriers are societies attitudes towards us and the built environment we live in.
"If you have a disability you are automatically unintelligent or incapable”
It’s heartbreaking, but some people assume that if you have a disability, you are less than or incapable of understanding complex topics. This misconception is not only insulting, but it’s also completely untrue. We like everyone else, have a range of intelligence, talents, and abilities. We should be judged by our skills, not our disability.
A few final thoughts.
Misconceptions about blindness and low vision are not just frustrating, they can be harmful, isolating, and limiting. By challenging these stereotypes and promoting understanding, we can create a more inclusive world. If you ever encounter someone who is blind or has low vision, the best approach is simple: treat us like any other person. Please always speak to us directly and do not default to those we are with.
Let’s break through the barriers and make our world more accessible and inclusive for everyone, regardless of our abilities. Being mindful we will all be 80 years old one day and all of us will have changing abilities. See us as unique individuals who navigate life different.
“Having a disability does not change who we are it changes our interactions with the world” Gina Martin
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One of our greatest powers is simply being kind to each other.
