According to the University of Illinois Eye & Ear Infirmary, the definition of low vision is visual impairment that leads to disability that cannot be corrected with regular glasses or by medical or surgical means. In a patient with low vision, many everyday tasks such as reading or driving become very difficult--if not impossible. However, there are tools that may assist a person who has been diagnosed with low vision continue with many of the activities of daily and independent living.
Magnifiers
For a person with low vision, reading can be challenging. There are several different types of magnifiers available to increase the size of the printed text so that the patient can see it more clearly. Some magnifiers are hand-held and look similar to magnifying glasses. Others rest on a stand that the reader can place around the text that is to be read. Magnifiers come in a variety of strengths and may have an attached light source.
Glasses
People with low vision can get a specialized pair of glasses prescribed by a low vision specialist. The lenses in these type of glasses are stronger than what is usually found in glasses. Glasses can be half-eye frames, just for reading, or even bifocals with the lower half of the lens being stronger. Other types of glasses have a small telescope attached to the front of the lens to allow the patient to focus on small objects.
Electronic Aids
There are some electronic solutions to assist patients with low vision in reading. One is a video magnifier where a device projects the reading material or picture into a closed circuit television screen. This device can also be connected to a computer or a TV. There are also portable versions of the technology. These electronics are more expensive solutions than hand-held magnifiers.
Telescopes for Distance
While driving may not be an option for patients with low vision, for some patients, using a high-powered telescope to enhance distance vision may allow some continued driving. This telescope may be connected to a pair of glasses and is usually placed on the lens of the eye with the best vision. However, the visual field is limited when using a telescope for vision; this may impact the amount of driving a patient is allowed to do. These types of telescopes can also be held for distance vision.
Audio Products
Activities such as cooking or telling time can be challenging for the patient with low vision. There are products that can help perform tasks around the house. Talking clocks and watches can help these patients to remain on time. There are also talking appliances, calculators and other items that can allow the person with low vision to remain independent. Audiobooks and tapes can allow people to continue to enjoy novels and magazines. Some people also utilize Braille, which is a tactual reading system, to read books and magazines even if they still have some vision.
Large Print
Many books, newspapers and other print materials are available in large print format for people with low vision. For some people, the large print may be legible alone; however, for others, the large print items can be used with magnifiers or the high-powered reading glasses. Some clocks, watches, computer keyboards and calculators can be purchased with large print keys as well.
