There are almost two million people in the UK who are living with sight loss that has a significant impact on their daily lives. We know that the number of people living with sight loss is increasing.
RNIB believes in an evidence based approach to policy and this section provides a gateway to important research and policy work RNIB and external organisations have undertaken in this area.
Vital statistics
One in every nine people aged over 60 are living with sight loss. There are now almost 14 million people in the UK who are aged over 60 and at risk of sight loss. There are also an increasing number of people living to later in life, with 1.4 million people in the UK aged over 85. One in every three people aged over 85 are living with sight loss.
To read more statistics about older people and sight loss visit our Older people and sight loss: Facts and figures page.
Key research
There is a variety of research carried out each year in relation to sight loss. This research provides a firm evidence base for supporting the work of professionals across health and social care when working with blind and partially sighted older people. Within our Older People and sight loss: Key research pages, we have identified some key research reports for professionals to be aware of.
Policy and campaigns
Our Older people: Policy and campaigns section gives details of the work we are doing with key decision makers at government, national and local levels to ensure effective services are provided for blind and partially sighted older people.