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Barbara was just 17 years old when she first realised something was wrong with her vision. 

Sitting at school, she experienced pain in her eyes. Doctors diagnosed her with retinitis pigmentosa and told her she would likely be blind by the age of 40.

Barbara had always struggled with poor night vision; still, she refused to let it define the life she wanted to live. Determined and resilient, she kept going, learning to adapt as her vision gradually changed.

Barbara managed independently for many years. After her husband’s death three years ago, she entered a new chapter in her life and recognised the need for additional support. Wanting to continue living independently, she reached out to Vision Australia.

Barbara has significantly changed by learning to use screen-reading technology. For the past three years, Vision Australia has supported her with assistive technology such as ZoomText and other screen readers, which enable her to continue using her computer and digital devices with confidence.

“These magnifiers and tools make a huge difference, but it takes a lot of determination and patience to learn how to use them,” Barbara said.

“Adapting is a skill. You can’t expect it to work straight away — you must give yourself room to learn how to use it,” she said.

Vision Australia specialists regularly visit Barbara at home, assisting her with desktop applications such as Word and Outlook and helping her make the most of her phone’s accessibility features.

“The ongoing tech support is wonderful. 

“The fact that they can come to my home and help me with my desktop computer is so helpful. They also have incredible knowledge of all the different apps and how to make your phone more accessible for my vision.”

Barbara has also benefited from Vision Australia’s orientation and mobility service beyond technology. She finds the support practical, reassuring, and empowering whether she navigates unfamiliar meeting rooms or office spaces.

“I needed specific assistance navigating meeting rooms and offices.

“Everyone I have come across at Vision Australia is always calm and empathetic in their approach.”

That sense of empathy has made all the difference. For Barbara, the emotional understanding shown by staff is as important as the practical skills they provide.

“The Vision Australia staff members are empathetic to how you are feeling and do their best to provide you with the skills and tools you need to be independent.”

Now, Barbara encourages anyone experiencing vision loss to reach out early and seek support without hesitation.

“Reach out to Vision Australia because you will get help and understanding instantly, I’ve had such good help myself, and they are always trying to improve and make life more inclusive.”