When someone is diagnosed with low vision, it does not mean they have to give up all their activities. It does mean that many low vision patients have to find a new way of doing their favorite activities.
There are many tools and techniques recommended by low vision rehab specialist to help low vision patients.
For patients that have blind spots in the center part of the vision, they can try to find the next best spot. Try looking at a large clock and moving the eyes along the numbers on the clock face. As you move, your eyes notice when the center area becomes clear. Take note of the location of your eyes and attempt to use this location when viewing other objects.
This process is part of low vision rehabilitation. It means using the vision that you currently have in a new way to compensate for the vision loss.
When you use a low vision rehab specialist, the specialist will work with you in conjunction with your other health care professionals such as an ophthalmologist, occupational therapist, social worker, and mobility specialist.
When you are searching for a low vision rehab specialist, first check with your ophthalmologist for a recommendation. Some of the services offered by low vision rehab specialists are rehabilitation training, home assessments, providing resources and support groups.
There are many low vision appliances and aids to help patients with their daily activities. This can include illuminated large magnifying lenses, hand magnifiers, and telescopes.
Non-optical aids can include large print books and newspapers, large numbered telephones, and audio books.
Other techniques include increasing natural light, reducing glare and creating more contrast.
Your low vision specialist should be consulted anytime you notice vision changes. The sooner a patient is diagnosed with low vision, the more successful the treatment.
