The bigger picture

Jakob may still be able to access help by contacting his local social services department and asking for a care needs assessment. He can also get in touch with local sight loss charities and support groups. 

For other people, a CVI triggers a referral for an assessment to provide them with what they need to remain as independent as possible.

This may be help with everyday tasks such as cleaning and cooking, transport, rehabilitation, or getting equipment or aids that will be of use around the house.

It also provides evidence for claiming concessions, such as help with NHS costs, council tax and public transport costs, and a reduced price TV licence, although being in possession of a CVI does not, in itself, mean automatic entitlement  to benefits.

According to the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), as of 2024, there were around 322,638 individuals registered as visually impaired in the UK. By 2030, the RNIB estimates that there will be more than 2.7 million people with sight loss in the UK, and over four million by 2050.

This rise is due to the fact that the risk factors associated with sight loss (ageing, diabetes, being on a low income) are all increasing.

Other risk factors for sight loss include gender (nearly two thirds of those affected are women), learning disabilities, and ethnicity (people from black and minority ethnic communities are at increased risk of some of the leading causes of sight loss).

Overall,  one in five people aged 75 years and over have sight loss, as do one in two people aged 90 years or over.