LOW VISION SERVICES

Low vision more commonly affects adults and seniors. Vision loss can be traumatic, leading to frustration and depression. Losing the ability to safely drive, read easily, watch television or view a computer screen can cause those with low vision to feel shut off from the world. Low vision makes it difficult to get around town independently or shop for food and other necessities.

Low vision often progresses gradually. You may notice over time that it’s more difficult to read small print even while wearing glasses, or it may be harder to see the names of storefronts or street signs. Colors may not appear as bright; objects may lose some contrast, or everything might seem a little bit darker or dimmer than it used to.

When vision problems can’t be resolved with the use of standard eyeglasses, our specialists will explore alternative devices such as high-powered eyeglasses, high powered telescopic eyeglasses or other optical or electronic devices with you. Even if you’ve experienced a major loss of vision due to disease, injury or eye condition, we have solutions to assist you with daily tasks and regain increased independence and a higher quality of life.

Evaluation

Every one of our patients is unique. And just as there are many different causes for vision problems, there are also many ways low vision can affect your life. We provide a thorough vision exam to not only diagnose your vision issues, but to determine which treatment options and devices will provide you with the best vision possible as well. By taking a vision and medical history and asking pertinent questions, we can assess the ways in which low vision is impacting your life. We may recommend vision rehabilitative exercises, training in the use of visual aids and support groups specifically for those with low vision.

After we’ve completed your evaluation, our specialist will discuss the results with you and any family members you may want to be present. We’ll cover your areas of visual difficulty and causes, as well as your goals and realistic expectations. At Florida Eye Specialists & Cataract Institute, we have numerous options available to help you achieve the highest visual function possible.

Low Vision Aids and Devices

We have a variety of assistive devices to help aid in typical activities, and we always stay up to date with the latest technologies since new items are being added constantly. Low vision aids can help maintain your independence and put your vision to its best use.

Different vision aids can help you perform specific tasks at a distance. Some of the more popular vision aids are:

Magnifiers – which can be hand-held, worn around the neck or attach to your eyewear to make reading small print items such as newspapers and restaurant menus more comfortable. Some magnifiers provide multiple levels of magnification or feature a built-in light.

Driving Vision Aid – such as special telescopic accessories and glare-reducing lenses that can make operating an automobile a possibility.

Computer Vision Aids – includes such items as keyboards with large print, text magnifiers and audio reader options.

High Powered Reading Glasses – specially made eyeglasses made to the strength to help you read.

Electronic Reading Aids – for use at home or portable versions to take along with you to make small print much easier to see.

Walking Aids – can provide stability and increase safety, which enhances your freedom and mobility.

Distance Vision Aids – specially designed eyewear that can help you view the television, movies and events such as concerts or sports much more clearly.  Bifocal, trifocal or prism glasses may be helpful by allowing the strongest parts of your eye to do the work visually.

Independent Living Aids – such as clocks with large numbers, closed-circuit televisions, large-button telephones and glare-free, flexible lighting, are very convenient and help accomplish everyday tasks.