According to medical research, more than ten million people are visually impaired, which is a significantly big number.
The good news is that even for those with visually impaired problems, it does not necessarily mean the end of living happily.
There are still plenty of ways blind or low-vision people can lead a fun life.
So, What Are Some Hobbies Good for Visually Impaired People?
There are a variety of fun hobbies to do including listening to music, reading aloud, radio shows and audiobooks, exercise and movement, household chores, raising pets, joining a social group, gardening, doing arts and crafts, as well as adaptive games. Individuals with visual impairment enjoy playing similar games as those without vision loss.
There are also adaptive versions for most games, such as table and board games, including checkers, dominoes, scrabble, and monopoly. However, most people with low vision do not require an adaptive version. Common adaptations for hobbies such as reading or games include braille, large print, or audio versions.
Read on for the various hobbies for virtually impaired people.
| See Also: How To Find A New Hobby |
Twelve Visually Impaired Hobby Ideas
1. Listening And Playing Music
A visually impaired person can listen to music with a cassette, CD, radio, or record player.
Learning to play a musical instrument involves playing by ear through the Braille system of music notation or screen-enlarging equipment.
Play your favorite songs or albums, or tune in to a radio station that plays your favorite music.
For devices such as Alexa, a visually impaired person can conveniently ask it to play their favorite album, song, or artist conveniently with a voice command.
You can also create a playlist on Spotify or Apple Music or go to concerts where your favorite artist is performing.
2. Going For a Nature Walk
Everyone likes a good walk.
Regardless of where you stay, there are various walking paths that you can choose from.
An important tip to remember is to choose a hiking path that is free from obstructions. Take a walk outside for sunshine and fresh air.
3. Go To the Movies
Today, most famous movies feature audio-described versions for visually impaired and blind audiences.
Most cinemas have audio-described shows in which visually impaired viewers are offered a set of headphones for audio descriptions while other people normally watch without headphones.
4. Find Local Groups or Organizations
Various local organizations or groups often organize activities or events.
The ideal organization for you will depend on your passion and interest.
For instance, if you love running, some organizations organize racing events and pair volunteers with those with disabilities, including visual impairment, to walk or run.
Depending on your interest, there is probably a local group or organization that would have fun activities to do.
5. Household Activities
While tidying up looks more of a chore than a hobby, visually impaired people can enjoy the feel of sorting out silverware, folding clothes, or winding yarn into balls.
6. Gardening
An individual that is blind or with low vision can effectively engage in gardening as a hobby, whether indoors or outdoors.
However, you will require to orient yourself with your garden and find ways to differentiate weeds and plants.
Some of the tips to help you engage in gardening as a visually impaired person include
- using light gardening tools
- using mulch to reduce weeds
- using sticks to mark the borders of the garden beds
- having a basic layout with uniform beds
- and having an outfit with many pockets to hold gardening equipment.
7. Working Out at Home
While working out is an option you might rule out initially, you should think again.
Stationary exercise equipment is readily available for hire and purchase if you love exercising, such as treadmills, rowing machines, and bicycles.
These will make effective hobbies for even individuals that are visually impaired.
You can also try out exercises like tai chi or chair yoga.
8. Board Cards and Games
Board cards and games are a classic option and timeless activity for anyone. Get a deck of bigger print cards or a set of dominos with larger dots.
Alternatively, if you have Google Home or Alexa, they can also enable you to play games such as Jeopardy, trivia, and Mad Libs.
Regardless of being visually impaired, you can still enjoy the fun!
9. Listen To Audiobooks and Podcasts
Listening to music is excellent. However, if you love a good story or are an avid reader but struggle because of vision impairment, you should consider listening to podcasts or audiobooks.
There are lots of these options for individuals who enjoy podcasts or audiobooks.
You can check them out through any of the dozens of online apps.
10. Reading
Nowadays, many books and magazines are available in large prints and braille. You can have fun reading your favorite topic aloud.
11. Art And Crafts
When looking at an excellent activity as a visually impaired individual, you can try getting something in the crafts and arts field.
This can include activities such as needlework or knitting.
You can also try sculpting with modeling clay or sculpting sand.
You can also try switching things up by making collages from old magazines or painting with bold and bright colors.
12. Having A Pet
Owning a pet means always having a companion on your side.
If you love animals and are still visually impaired, you can still have a pet.
Owning a pet such as a feline or a dog can enable them to have a responsibility and might even help you maintain a routine.
Plus, playing or petting animals is not just fun; it’s also soothing and great for your mental health.
Three Ways To Stay Safe While Pursuing Your Hobby
Regardless of the hobby you end up doing, being visually impaired means you should always put safety first.
Some of the tips to consider include;
1. Organize Your House Efficiently
Things like a TV remote or house keys can be tricky to find on any day, particularly if you are visually impaired.
Consider organizing your home or room by having designated shelves or cubbies for such things.
2. Watch For Tripping Hazards
If you or your close one has a visual impairment, this is vital to keep in mind. Eliminate all clutter and remove all the unnecessary rugs from the walking paths.
3. Enhance Lighting
Another important tip to consider for safety is ensuring your household is well lit. Add brighter lamps and bulbs around the home, particularly in high-traffic areas.
4. Develop Contrasting Colors
Individuals with visual impairment can benefit hugely by creating contrasting colors for items such as outlet covers and wall paints. You can also mark the cooking equipment with brightly colored tags.
Bottom Line
Being diagnosed with visual impairment doesn’t mean the end of engaging in hobbies or having fun.
Today, many hobbies can be adapted to suit an individual who is blind and with low vision.
Common adaptations include Braille, large print, or audio versions.
Generally, there are still many great ways of taking part in things that we love.