AUSTRALIANS are waiting too long to seek help when their vision starts to fade.
New research released by Guide Dogs Australia shows more than half of vision-impaired Australians are waiting too long to seek assistance when they began to experience issues.
More than one quarter of the 600 people surveyed as part of the national study waited for more than a year before seeking help.
Almost one in five waited almost five years and 11 per cent waited 10 years.
While 46 per cent of people didn't seek help because they didn't feel they needed it, almost one quarter didn't know where to find help.
Guide Dogs Victoria chief executive Karen Hayes urged people experiencing vision problems to seek help immediately.
"No matter your level of vision loss - don't delay in seeking help," Ms Hayes said.
"Whether it's having to rely on someone else to get to work or university, avoiding the shopping centre on a Saturday morning because it's difficult to navigate the crowds or giving up going to the footy at the MCG, it can really have an impact on a person's confidence and self-efficacy."
Guide Dogs Australia offers specialised programs to help people with low vision safely navigate their way through different environments using different mobility aids.
"We tailor programs to meet the lifestyle needs of each individual, and most training is delivered locally, in the person's home, community, school or work environment, at no cost."
