Do Blind People Blink? And How Often Do They Do It?

Blinking Habits of a Blind Person: Do They Blink?

In our daily lives, we often overlook the significance of the small things we possess. While we tend to focus on what we lack, it is crucial to appreciate what we do have. 

Take a moment to consider the gift of seeing, which many of us cherish dearly. However, it’s important to acknowledge that not everyone shares this essential ability. 

Have you ever wondered how it must be for those who cannot see and have you ever wondered if they do the same thing as people that can see like blinking?

I believe in raising awareness and providing information about the experiences of individuals with visual impairments because as of last year I lost the use of my eye sight from Neuromyelitis Optica, NMO for short. 

I will answer a question that I get from some of my friends and family members about the  intriguing topic of “Do blind people blink and, if so, how frequently they do.” 

But before diving into “Do blind people see?” Let’s familiarize ourselves with some basic information.

Types and Levels of Blindness

Blindness is often simply defined as not being able to see. Yet, in reality, it encompasses a wide range of conditions and varying degrees of visual impairment. 

Some individuals may experience complete vision loss, while others, like myself, retain partial sight, perceiving only glimpses of light or shapes. 

Blindness can arise from neurological defects or eye-related issues, giving rise to five different categories:

Categories that can cause blindness:

Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI): Problems in the brain’s visual processing centers can make it hard to understand what is seen, even if the eyes are fine.

Retinitis Pigmentosa: A genetic disorder that affects the retina, causing peripheral vision loss and sometimes central vision loss.

Macular Degeneration: A condition that affects the center of vision, making it blurry or dark, and is more common in older people.

Retinopathy of Prematurity: A condition found in premature babies where abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina can lead to vision problems if not treated.

Disease/Chronic Illness: Like the chronic illness/disease that I battle called Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO). An autoimmune disease that affects the optic nerves, leading to vision loss in addition to its effects on the spinal cord.

Understanding these different categories helps us provide better support and help to people with visual impairments. 

It’s important to remember that blindness can affect people differently, with some having mild vision loss and others experiencing complete blindness. 

By learning about these conditions, we can promote inclusivity and better communication with visually impaired individuals.

So Why do People Blink?

Blinking is a semi-automatic bodily function. It serves various purposes and involves the rapid opening and closing of our eyes. 

Blinking plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health and visual comfort.

One of the purposes of blinking is to lubricate the eyes. When you and I blink, tears are evenly spread across the surface of the eyes, promoting moisture and preventing dryness. 

This lubrication creates a smooth surface that allows for clear light reflection, which is essential for maintaining sharp and focused vision.

Additionally, blinking helps alleviate the occasional itchiness that arises from dryness. It allows for a refreshing sensation by spreading tears over the eyes, relieving any discomfort caused by dryness or irritation. 

Blinking also aids in the removal of foreign particles that may enter the eyes, acting as a protective mechanism to keep the eyes clear and free from debris.

So, blinking serves the purposes of lubricating the eyes, promoting clear vision, relieving itchiness, and safeguarding the eyes from foreign particles. 

It is a natural and essential reflex that helps maintain the health and well-being of our eyes.

What Are The Blinking Habits in Blind Individuals?

The blinking habits in blind individuals can vary. Some blind people may still blink like everyone else, while others may blink less or have different blinking patterns. 

It depends on the individual and the specific cause of their blindness and varies from individual to individual. 

Those born blind possess functioning optical nerves and muscles, enabling them to blink as a natural, semi-automatic response. 

However, the frequency of their blinking may vary—some blink more often, others less frequently, and some may never blink.

If someone becomes blind because of an accident that hurts their eyes, they may have problems with the nerves and muscles that control blinking. 

This can make it difficult or impossible for them to blink. 

Severe nerve damage can stop them from responding to things happening around them, including blinking.

How to Interact with an Individual that is Blind?

It is important to remember that blind people, like all of us, are human beings deserving of respect and understanding. 

A blind person’s inability to see should never be a justification for treating them poorly. 

Instead, it is crucial to establish clear communication, inquire about their preferences, and respect their boundaries. 

By doing so, we foster better understanding, avoid causing annoyance or harm, and create an inclusive environment.