Low Vision

"Low Vision" is the term that applies to people whose vision is reduced as a result of an eye disease such as macular degeneration, diabetes, or glaucoma. "Legally Blind" is a term that identifies vision which cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses better than 20/200. Many daily functions such as reading mail or the newspaper, writing checks, watching TV, driving and general mobility may be affected. Once the eye doctor has stabilized the disease as much as possible, there are many options to improve functional abilities.

Various illuminated high-powered magnifiers can allow a person to read again. High-powered glasses are also available, but they do force one to hold reading material quite close. Special head-mounted telescopic systems are available for watching TV, or for being able to spot aisle signs while shopping, see sporting events, or identify approaching bus numbers.

The most extraordinary developments have been in the area of electronic digital technology. These are closed circuit TVs that are used for reading, writing or seeing objects at a distance. The camera is mounted in a stand, held in the hand, or worn on the head. Some of these systems are completely portable, with the glasses housing a virtual screen. Other developments are print-enlarging computer software.

Non-optical aids are also important: the effect of lighting and glare cannot be overestimated. Special filters can be worn to enhance contrast, reduce glare, thereby maximizing vision. There are many other useful items for the visual impaired such as talking clocks, large telephone dials, large checkbooks and TV remote controls, magnifying mirrors, writing aids.

Once a referral from the patient's eye doctor is received, a low vision examination is carried out, the patient's goals are identified, the pertinent low vision aids are demonstrated and tried, and then supplied to the patient with additional training, as needed.