Low Vision
Are you a patient with low vision? Low vision occurs when a patient has difficulty seeing that cannot be corrected through traditional medical intervention. Specifically, low vision is 20/70 or worse. Glasses, contacts, and surgery may all be unsuccessful. When low vision cannot be further treated through medical or surgical treatments, other methods of treatment must be used.
How Will Low Vision Impact Me?
Patients with low vision are either partially sighted (20/70 vision to 20/200 vision) or legally blind (20/200). Patients with low vision may still be able to see to some degree, but will have difficulty seeing even with corrective lenses. Because low vision can’t be treated medically or surgically, patients will instead use aids that will help them during day-to-day life.
Patients who use vision aids can often live a completely normal life. However, it does take some practice. Your optometrist will work with you to find the solutions that work the best, and to help you adjust to using them.
What Are Some Types of Low Vision Aid?
Low vision aids can include products that make screens or text larger, like magnifier lenses, or lights that sharpen contrast. Those with low vision may start to use screenreaders for tablets and computers, so they can rely upon their hearing rather than their sight. Those with low vision may need to organize things in their office and at their home so they know where everything is, rather than having to look for them.
If you have low vision, treatment may still be an option for you. We can go over your vision needs, and determine whether treatment or aids would be the best solution. However, the first step is to diagnose low vision.
