Valentine’s Day Spotlight: Dating with Low Vision/Blindness
Dating can be challenging enough but adding a low vision/blindness disability to the mix makes it even more complicated. This Valentine’s Day or Singles Awareness Day as some of us call it, let’s talk about dating in the sight loss community. Over the years disabilities and sight loss have started to become a topic of conversation more frequently and there are tons of online support groups as well as in person programs that have popped up in communities. There are so many positive changes that have happened in recent times for awareness and community but dating with a disability remains a rarely covered topic. This Valentine’s Day we’re covering what it’s really like and we want to hear what you think in the comments!
Dating with sight loss can be a challenging and even scary new experience whether you are getting out there for the first time or just getting back into the game. But there are still tons of ways to have fun and make the most of it this February! One of the most intimidating parts of the dating process is deciding where to go. Here is how we have tackled this challenge.
Trying a new food experience! What’s that old saying about the best way to someone’s heart is through their stomach? Well its true isn’t it! Whether you are going to celebrate singles day with friends, or you are braving a first date making the outing about food can bring you together. Try ordering different things on the menu and then take turns guessing which food is which. Or try a new restaurant you have always been wanting to go to but never had the time. Even if your date is totally boring eating a delicious meal is always a good time! Let us know what other fun date ideas you have tried!
Another common dating issue is transportation. Make sure to pick somewhere you can reach by public transit or within walking distance. That way you will feel comfortable leaving whenever you want to. Sometimes we may feel as though we are coming off picky or indecisive if we must turn down offers to go somewhere that is not accessible but a quick and simple explanation should do the trick to clear things up! Don’t be afraid to mention your travel requirements and don’t be afraid to move on if your date doesn’t respond in an understanding way. Nowadays with Uber there are a lot more options as well!
Finally, don’t forget to have fun! Dating can be stressful, but the main point is to go out and meet new people so just be yourself! If you have any other dating hacks or experiences, you’d like to share feel free to leave a comment! Thanks for reading and Happy Valentine’s Day!
The Sight-Loss Support Group of Baltimore and Beyond can help you feel less isolated and more empowered in your sight-loss journey. Please join us virtually on the third Tuesday of every month. Registration required.
Do you have a blog suggestion? We’d love to hear and share your tips and experiences in a future 20/20 blog posts! Blog@LowVisionMD.org