Low vision occurs when people are unable to see well enough to complete everyday tasks – even with glasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery. Eye professionals consider aided sight of 20/70 or worse as the designation for low vision. Normal vision is 20/20. So for someone with 20/70 vision, an object that is 20 feet away is as difficult to see as an object that is 70 feet away for someone with normal vision.
If you are concerned about your vision or that of a loved one, get a thorough eye examination from an eye care professional. It should include dilation of the eyes so changes to the eyes, injuries, or other damage can be seen and diagnosed.
Low vision can be present at birth. But most low vision develops over a long period of time and is most common in the elderly. Individuals with low vision are not blind. They have usable, but diminished, vision. The National Eye Institute estimates that 14 million Americans – one of every 20 – has low vision.
What Causes Low Vision?
There are numerous causes and combinations of causes for low vision, including:
- Macular degeneration – the most common cause
- Birth defects
- Inherited diseases
- Injuries
- Diabetes
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- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Aging
- Retinitis pigmentosa
- Retinal detachment
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What Will Help Those with Low Vision
Low vision devices consist of optical and non-optical apparatus to improve vision.
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Optical
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- Magnifying spectacles
- Hand magnifiers
- Stand magnifiers
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- Telescopes
- Closed-circuit television
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Non-optical
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- Large-print books, newspapers, and magazines
- Check-writing guides
- Large playing cards
- Enlarged telephone dials
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- High-contrast watch faces
- Machines that talk (timers, clocks, computers)
- Machines that scan print and read aloud
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Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation programs train people to reduce the impact of the vision loss so they can maintain independence, productivity, and life satisfaction. Rehabilitation training teaches people with low vision how best to use residual vision and adapt to the challenges of everyday living.
Individuals who do not receive some form of rehabilitation will often abandon reading, traveling, and other tasks that normally require visual acuity.
Environmental Modification
Increasing the light in work areas, hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms can help those with low vision. Reducing tasks involving tools and machines with small parts or hard-to-read directions or dials, will reduce the risk of accidents. Modifications will vary, depending on the specific limitations caused by low vision. Joining a low-vision support group allows you to learn from others, share your own experiences, and maintain a positive attitude.
Help and Advocacy
Check these sites for more information on low vision, assistance, and advocacy services.
Eye Care Professionals
There are different types of eye-care professionals, with different specialties and focus.
- Ophthalmologist – a medical doctor (MD) who diagnoses and treats diseases and disorders of the eye and can also prescribe glasses and contact lenses.
- Optician – a trained professional who grinds, fits, and dispenses glasses by prescription from an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
- Optometrist – a primary eye care provider (Doctor of Optometry – OD) who prescribes glasses and contact lenses. An optometrist can diagnose and treat certain conditions and diseases of the eye.
- Specialist in Low Vision – an ophthalmologist or optometrist who specializes in the evaluation of low vision. This person can prescribe visual devices and teach people how to use them.
- Vision Rehabilitation Teacher – a person who trains people with low vision to use optical and non-optical devices, adaptive techniques, and community resources.
Summary
Many things can be done to help those with low vision adapt to their condition, overcome obstacles, and continue with a high quality life. Get a thorough eye exam and take advantage of programs and technology to help you lead the life you want. |
