Low vision is not the same as blindness or traditional vision problems that can be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses. Low vision is vision that does not allow you do to the things that you need to do. This is different for different people and may include the inability to distinguish colors, the loss of visual activity, blurred, obstructed or spotty vision, and the loss of visual fields, such as "tunnel vision.” It is usually caused by injury or eye disease such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, but can be a result of a injury or a hereditary condition.

 

People with low vision usually retain some usable vision, and although there is no cure for low vision, eye care and vision rehabilitation treatment is available. Low vision specialists at The Eye Clinic help patients by evaluating their functioning eyesight and prescribing optical devices or training to maximize their remaining vision. Vision rehabilitation services help individuals adapt to their new environment and teaches them to function safely with newfound independence and confidence. Through the proper rehabilitation procedures, patients can maintain their everyday quality of life and complete necessary tasks.

 

Low vision devises include optical and non-optical tools that improve vision. Different types of low vision may require different kinds of visual assistance. Optical low vision devises use lenses or a combination of lenses to provide magnifications. These are very different from standard eyeglasses and include:

 

Non-optical low vision tools include:

 

A complete eye exam by an experienced ophthalmologist is essential for an accurate diagnosis of low vision.