Vision Aid

Helping individuals make the best of their remaining vision.

What is low vision?

The term “low vision” describes a vision loss that is severe enough to interfere with the ability to perform everyday tasks. Individuals with “low vision” cannot have their vision corrected to normal by conventional eyeglasses or contacts. If you have low vision, you may experience overall blurred vision, loss of central vision, or loss of peripheral (side) vision.

What causes low vision?

Low vision can result from specific eye conditions, such as cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy to name a few.

What to expect from a low vision evaluation.

The specialist will make a determination of how the client uses vision in their work and/or daily activities. Various optical aids will be demonstrated to determine which, if any, low vision aids will be beneficial in performing the specific tasks at work or at home. After the aids have been identified, training will be provided on the proper use and care of the equipment.

There are literally thousands of different products available for people with low vision, so having a specialist to assist in the selection of devices is a valuable service.

What types of low vision aids are available?

Low vision aids make the best of the remaining vision by magnifying, filtering, or increasing the usable field of vision. Several examples of low vision aids are:

• Hand-held or stand magnifiers for reading
• High-intensity lamps for hands free tasks, such as writing or sewing
• Small telescopes for distance viewing
• Closed Circuit Televisions (CCTV’s), which magnify printed material onto a television or computer screen.

Other examples of low vision aids include bold line paper, talking watches, and writing guides.