What Is Low Vision & What Causes It?
Low vision is a visual impairment that can’t be fixed using traditional corrective measures such as glasses or contact lenses. It can be caused by eye injuries, brain injuries, and genetic factors. It can also result from eye diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy, especially in adults aged 75 and above.
Most common types of low vision:
- Central vision loss: A blind spot in the center of vision.
- Peripheral (side) vision loss: Inability to see to the side, above, and below eye level.
- Night blindness: Difficulty seeing in poorly lit or dim environments.
- Blurry vision: Objects appear out of focus.
- Hazy vision: Feeling like you're looking at everything through a fog or a haze.
How Does Low Vision Impact Daily Life?
Low vision makes tasks like reading, writing, cooking, housework, watching TV, driving, and recognizing people’s faces challenging. This can cause feelings of isolation and even depression, especially when it affects one's ability to work, function independently, drive, or resume normal life.
That said, there is hope! Our compassionate eye doctors are here to provide the support you need to maximize any remaining vision so you can regain your confidence and independence.
Low Vision Tools & Visual Rehabilitation
Vision loss is a diverse spectrum that ranges from mild impairment to legal blindness. We’ll assess your condition and curate a personalized rehabilitation plan to give you improved vision and greater freedom.
What Are Visual Aids?
Low-vision aids are specially designed to improve visual performance for those with low vision. They include:
- Non-optical aids: External adaptations for easier daily tasks, large-print books, glare-proof sunglasses, tactile dots
- Optical aids:Specialized lenses for enhanced vision, telescopes, stand magnifiers
- Electronic aids:Closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs), screen readers, head-mounted eyewear displays, and more.
How To Make Life With Low Vision Easier
- Use adequate lighting at home
- Make use of magnifiers, including hand-held, stand, binoculars, and spectacle-mounted options.
- Consider specialized lens tints recommended by your optometrist or low vision specialist.
- Opt for large print books or explore digital recordings or audiobooks for reading.
- Use high contrast for writing, such as large letters with a broad black pen on white paper.
- Prevent falls and maintain independence by adding high-contrast stripes on steps.
- Explore new technologies for improved vision.
Consult our eye doctor in Woodcliff Lake for personalized guidance on simplifying life with low vision.
