If you’ve recently heard you have glaucoma, you might feel a bit shaken. You might wonder what this means for your vision, your daily life, or your future.
For many people, understanding comes gradually. Below are questions people often ask as they begin to make sense of a glaucoma diagnosis, along with a few trusted places to turn when you want more information.
If even reading about this feels like too much right now, that’s okay. These links will still be here when you’re ready. Learning what works for you—and ignoring what doesn’t—is part of adjusting.
Where can I find information that makes sense to me?
When emotions are high, dense medical explanations are not helpful. Many people prefer resources that explain glaucoma in plain language and let you read at your own pace.
Some reliable, readable places many start include:
- Cleveland Clinic, with a clear overview on glaucoma
- Mayo Clinic, which covers symptoms, causes, and treatment options
- Johns Hopkins Medicine, including explanations from glaucoma specialist Dr. Mona Kaleem
These are resources you can return to as new questions come up.
Will I lose my vision completely?
This is often the question people worry about. The answer isn’t the same for everyone—but many people can retain some vision with early diagnosis, treatment, and regular follow-up care.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology explains what to expect after diagnosis, and the Glaucoma Research Foundation shares how treatment and monitoring can help stabilize vision over time.
What does treatment usually involve?
Treatment looks different for each person and follow-up visits become part of your routine.
The National Eye Institute explains glaucoma medicines, laser treatments, and surgery. The Brightfocus Foundation hosts Glaucoma Chats, free audio conversations with glaucoma specialists about research, treatment, and day-to-day management. You can register for free. You can also learn more in the Hadley Presents episode Hear from the Scientists: Glaucoma and Macular Degeneration Chats.
Who can I talk to who actually gets it?
Glaucoma affects more than your eyes—it affects how you feel about driving, reading, working, or asking for help. Talking with someone who “gets it” can make a real difference.
Some people find connection in online communities like the Living with Glaucoma Support Group on Facebook or the Glaucoma subreddit on Reddit.
Others prefer smaller, more personal spaces. For older adults with vision loss, Hadley offers the Adjusting & Coping Together support groups and a Peer-to-Peer Program, where you can connect with someone who understands what adjusting can feel like—at no cost.
What if I’m worried about paying for care?
Concerns about cost are common, especially with ongoing treatment.
- Prevent Blindness offers helpful financial assistance information.
- American Glaucoma Society has information about financial assistance, medication help, and low-cost care options.
How do I keep doing the things that matter to me?
Many people worry about how they will keep doing things on their own, but small changes can make daily tasks more manageable. Simple strategies around lighting, contrast, and organization often help.
Hadley’s Living with Glaucoma series offers practical tips and suggestions. Hadley also offers Low Vision Tip reels on Facebook and YouTube. The Low Vision Tip YouTube playlist is available if and when it feels useful.
Learning to live with glaucoma is a process, and it unfolds differently for everyone. Support—practical, emotional, and human—can make that process feel less heavy.
Hadley is here to walk alongside you, offering free resources, connection, and encouragement as you adjust and move forward, at your own pace.
If you’ve found other resources helpful for living with glaucoma, please post them in the Comments below.
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