| Helping a loved one with low vision >> |
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| Living with Low Vision Not being able to drive safely, read quickly, or easily view a television/computer screen makes everday tasks challenging. Individuals with low vision may be unable to get around town independently, earn a living, or even shop for food and other necessities. Some visually impaired people become completely dependent on friends and relatives, while others suffer alone. Many low vision devices and strategies exist to help people overcome vision impairment and live independently. The first step is to visit an eye doctor who specializes in low vision care. He or she can evaluate the degree and type of vision loss, prescribe appropriate low vision aids such as magnifiers, telescopes, and video magnifiers, and train the patient to use them. A specialist can also recommend non-optical adaptive devices, such as large-face printed material, audio tapes, special light fixtures, and signature guides for signing checks and documents. Just as importantly, low vision specialists can provide referrals to counselors, who can help low vision patients cope with their new life situation. If you are having any difficulty seeing, visit an eyecare professional for a complete exam. These could be the first signs of a serious eye disease such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, or retinitis pigmentosa; or they could mean that you have a cataract that needs removal. Either way, you need to take action before further vision loss occurs. |
| Did you know? |
| One in six Americans age 45 or older –representing 16.5 million people-report some form of vision impairment even when wearing lenses. |
| By age 76 one in four report some form of vision impairment. |
| The number of visually impaired persons will double by 2030. |
| Source: Lighthouse International, 2005 World Health Organization, 2005 |