Vision Impairment in Ireland: 2016 Census Data on Sight Loss

Irish Census 2016: 55,572 People with Sight Loss, 18,885 with Profound Disability

The 2016 Irish Census provides the most recent comprehensive data on vision impairment in Ireland. The National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI) uses these figures for advocacy and service planning.

Key Statistics

• Total experiencing sight loss: 55,572 (1.2% of population).
• Profound vision disability (cannot see at all / light perception only): 18,885.
• Age breakdown: Majority 65+; but significant working-age cohort.
• Gender: Slightly higher prevalence in women (longevity).

NCBI Service Reach

• NCBI supports ~8,000 clients annually (subset of total).
• Services: mobility training, assistive tech, counseling, employment support, library (Braille, audio, digital).
• Advocacy: accessible transport, built environment, digital inclusion, education.

Trends & Projections

• Aging population → rising age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy.
• Projected 30% increase by 2030.
• 2022 Census data pending (will update figures).

Note

"Population of National Council for Blind Ireland" is not a census category. The figures above represent the Irish population with vision impairment, which is NCBI's constituency.