What is Low Vision? Low vision is not the same as blindness!

Low Vision and Legal Blindness

Blindness is a total lack of vision. Unfortunately, many people become confused as some people with low vision are classified as "legally blind". "Legally blind" is a term which may be applied to someone who still has some usable vision. Most legally blind persons have some usable sight. Many people misuse the term "legally blind". A legally blind person cannot see a certain size letter on an eye chart even with their glasses or contact lenses on. People who can see well with glasses or contact lenses are NOT legally blind. People with low vision can use their sight, unlike a totally blind person.
 
The amount of sight and how it is used varies for each person with low vision. To determine if you suffer from low vision, a low vision evaluation must first be performed. Our doctors use special examination techniques and prescribe special lenses and low vision aids based specifically for the needs of each patient.
 
Individuals that may benefit from a low vision evaluation include those suffering from macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal diseases, optic nerve diseases, and vision loss from head trauma.
 
A low vision rehabilitation evaluation is focused on determining a patient's potential for visual rehabilitation through the use of specifically prescribed eyewear, specialized training and/or low vision devices. This might include using special magnification devices, special tints or telescopes to improve the patient's quality of life. Non-optical aids, like large print books and playing cards, books on tape, talking watches, etc. may also be suggested.
 
If, upon evaluation, these methods/devices are found to help a patient overcome some of their visual challenges, specific devices may be prescribed.
 
Before a low vision device is given to a patient, they must perform some basic training in our office with the doctor or one of our trained technicians. Certain devices need to be held at a specific distance or in a particular orientation in order to provide maximum benefit.
 
Lenses or devices for the low vision patient are designed to offer an improvement in the quality of life of the patient. Clear vision is not always attainable, but some improvement in visual function is often possible through use of these lenses or devices.
 
Low vision devices can also come in the form of lens-mounted telescopes or specialized hand-held magnifiers. Patients who feel they may be suffering from low vision should schedule a consultation with our low vision specialist.