Why Can’t I Get Any Answers?
A common refrain from clients is, “Why does it feel like I’m getting the runaround?”
Whether it’s a medical provider, government agency, or service organization, people living with vision loss often walk away feeling their questions weren’t really answered—or worse, ignored altogether.
It’s easy to take this personally. When you ask a question and get silence, vague replies, or no follow-up, it can feel like someone is withholding information on purpose. A silent rejection. And that hits a nerve, because clear information helps us feel safe, grounded, and in control.
But here’s the hard truth: sometimes the person you’re asking doesn’t know the answer. Or they lack the authority to speak openly.
Professionals who do not have the confidence, clarity, or communication skills to have a hard—but necessary—conversation often don't know what they don't know. Sometimes, the larger system they work in is so unstable or reactive that even honest people hesitate to speak up, fearing they’ll get in trouble for saying the “wrong” thing.
First, let me acknowledge your need for answers is valid. You deserve transparency, and your concerns are real.
If you hit a wall, don’t give up. Try rephrasing. Be persistent. Ask follow-up questions. Clarify what you’re hoping to learn. Remember: “Just because it didn’t happen the first time doesn’t mean the answer isn’t out there—I have a need for clarity.”
You are not being unreasonable. You are advocating for yourself—and that’s something to be proud of. Say what you mean and mean what you say without saying it mean.
We are a community of families, eye care specialists, health clinicians, advocates, teachers, vendors, counselors, and vision rehabilitation professionals open to learning. We share best practices, new technology, and how to use websites. And not everyone has the same body of knowledge.
When the human nervous system becomes dysregulated it feels safer to shut down emotionally. Take a few long, deep breaths. If it's really hard consider taking a step back and revisiting the issue another day.
Just keep chipping away at it. Communicating your needs verbally and in writing (where appropriate) is highly correlated to the likelihood that those needs will be met.