Left Out of Sight: Exploring Stigma in Healthcare Accommodations for Canadians with Low Vision

Abstract

Background/Rationale: Older adults with low vision or blindness face healthcare barriers that extend beyond service access, including stigma, ageism, and inconsistent accommodations. Little is known about how these barriers operate within Canadian healthcare settings. Research Questions: What do older adults report when requesting accommodations, and how do provider interactions reflect stigma and ageism? Objective: To explore how older adults with low vision and blindness experience requesting accommodations and interacting with providers in the Canadian healthcare system, primarily in Ontario, where 14 of the 15 participants resided. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 adults with low vision or blindness who had accessed Canadian healthcare within the previous 10 years. Participants were recruited through community, retiree, and disability organizations. Results: Seven themes were identified. Continuity of care provided the context against which other experiences were measured. Three challenges were described: inconsistent accessibility, clinician and staff gaps, and stigma. Participants responded through family advocacy and self-advocacy, and identified recommendations for recognition, systemic reform, and training. Accommodations were available when requested but were rarely anticipated, which transferred the work of obtaining accessible care to participants and their families. Conclusion: Healthcare in Ontario, where most participants resided, accommodated participants when asked but did not anticipate their needs. Findings inform more equitable, age-inclusive, and disability-conscious healthcare practice.