Blindness and Sunglasses: What's the Link?

Have you ever wondered why some individuals who are blind wear sunglasses? It’s a valid question, especially considering much of the public believes people with vision loss are mostly in the dark.  Olympic swimmer, Anastasia Pagonis, who recently qualified for the Paris Summer Olympics, has addressed this on her social media feed. We’d like to chime in and set the record straight. Here are some key reasons why some individuals who are blind may choose to wear sunglasses:  

1. Sensitivity to Light: Many people who are blind or visually impaired have heightened sensitivity to light, a condition known as photophobia. Even though they may not have functional vision, their eyes can still be sensitive to bright sunlight or harsh indoor lighting. Sunglasses with tinted or polarized lenses help to reduce glare and brightness, making it more comfortable for them to move around and interact in different environments. 

2. Protection from the Elements: Sunglasses provide a physical barrier that helps protect the eyes from dust, debris, wind, and other environmental elements. This protection is particularly important for individuals who have compromised vision as they navigate outdoor spaces or crowded areas where unexpected physical contact could occur. 

3. Social Cue: Wearing sunglasses serves as a visual cue to others that the person has impaired vision. This can preemptively communicate their condition, potentially reducing the likelihood of intrusive questions or misunderstandings in social interactions. It helps to manage social encounters with greater ease and dignity by signaling to others that the individual may have specific needs or preferences. 

4. Privacy and Comfort: Sunglasses provide a sense of privacy and comfort by shielding the eyes. For some blind individuals, especially those who are not fully blind but have low vision, wearing sunglasses can alleviate self-consciousness about their eye movements or appearance. It allows them to feel more at ease in public settings without feeling exposed or scrutinized. 

5. Symbol of Identity and Empowerment: Choosing sunglasses that fit personal style preferences can empower individuals who are blind by allowing them to assert control over their appearance and public presentation. This ability to choose fosters a sense of autonomy and individuality, challenging stereotypes and promoting self-expression within the blind community. 

To recap, sunglasses for blind individuals are more than just a fashion accessory; they serve crucial functional, social, and psychological purposes. They provide eye health and safety, enhance comfort, facilitate navigation in varying environments, and contribute to a broader sense of empowerment and autonomy in daily life. We hope you have gained a better understanding of not only why individuals who are blind sometimes choose to wear glasses, but also some of the challenges they face in everyday life. We also hope you will use this new knowledge to encourage accessibility and discourage stigmas and stereotypes that affect the low-vision community.  

Anastasia Pagonis, featured in the photo above, is a recipient of Radar, one of our guide dogs. Learn more about how we provide guide dogs at no cost to individuals who are blind or have low vision!