Low Vision
What is low vision?
Low vision is a loss of eyesight that makes everyday tasks difficult. A person with low vision may find it difficult to accomplish activities such as reading, writing, driving a car, watching television, or recognizing faces. When vision cannot be improved with regular eyeglasses, medicine, or surgery, visual rehabilitation with low vision techniques can be helpful to make the most of the remaining sight.
What causes low vision?
Low vision can be caused by eye injuries or diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and retinitis pigmentosa. Normal aging of the eye does not cause low vision.
What can be done to help?
Vision rehabilitation can help people with low vision compensate for their vision loss. Mastering new techniques and devices can help you regain confidence, complete daily activities, and live independently despite vision loss. This can be a challenging and frustrating period of adjustment. The amount of rehabilitation needed depends on your vision loss.
Low-vision aids
Many devices, aids and techniques can help people use their remaining vision. Visual aids include hand-held magnifiers, telescopes, and video magnifiers. Others include large-print books and cards, signing guides, talking watches, and special pill cases.
Where to get help?
Lighthouse for the Blind
650 N. Andrews Avenue
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
954-463-4217
Foundation Fighting Blindness
11435 Cronhill Drive
Owings Mills, MD 21117
800-683-5555