Intended for individuals losing their sight and for families of these individuals, this guide presents methods of performing basic tasks of daily living, addresses common feelings and fears, and offers suggestions for additional help. An introductory chapter outlines how to use the guide. Subsequent chapters address the following topics: (1) initial and later reactions to vision loss including denial, rage, depression, and acceptance; (2) some possible immediate steps upon learning of the vision loss, such as obtaining a medical consultation; (3) suggestions on maximizing use of all one's senses; (4) ideas for organizing one's home for maximum mobility and independence; (5) changes in family roles and how to handle them; (6) specific techniques for managing daily chores and paperwork; (7) adaptive aids; (8) becoming more socially active; (9) suggestions for handling embarrassing situations; and (10) the value of formal rehabilitation programs. The appendixes list adaptive aids catalogs, companies, disability databases, dog-guide schools, federal agencies, national organizations, periodicals, radio reading services, rehabilitation services, sports and recreation organizations and publications, and 75 references. (DB)