Low Vision
What is Low Vision?
Low vision is a condition characterized by significant visual impairment that cannot be fully corrected with standard glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery.
More than 18 percent of U.S. adults have difficulty seeing even when wearing glasses or contacts, so it’s crucial to address this serious visual impairment.
Unlike blindness, low vision allows for some degree of useful sight, but it’s often inadequate for daily tasks.
People with low vision may have difficulty with everyday activities such as reading, writing, recognizing faces, and navigating their environment despite having used the best possible corrective measures. Simple activities such as watching TV, reading signs, or recognizing faces become challenging, and some may lose their eligibility to drive. However, specialized testing and treatments offer hope in managing these difficulties, significantly improving quality of life.
Causes of Low Vision
Low vision can stem from various factors including genetics, developmental issues, diseases, strokes, and trauma.
Low Vision Devices
Special devices, called low vision aids, can often allow individuals to regain much useful vision. These range from simple magnifiers to complex optical and electronic systems. Low vision aids can help individuals maximize their remaining sight and maintain independence.
Low Vision Care and Specialists
Low vision specialists are healthcare professionals with specialized training and expertise in evaluating and managing visual impairments that cannot be fully corrected with standard eyeglasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery. Low vision specialists typically include optometrists or ophthalmologists who have undergone additional training in low vision rehabilitation.
Living with Low Vision
Visually impaired people may have trouble performing day-to-day activities, but there are numerous low vision aid options and many proven strategies for helping one adjust to low vision.