What is low vision?
Low Vision (or LV) is a condition in which the patient suffers from severe visual impairment which cannot be corrected through the use of conventional eyeglasses, contact lenses, surgery or medication. There is a significant number of diseases that can affect vision in various ways. For example, maculopathy affects the central vision, glaucoma affects the peripheral vision while cataracts cause blurry vision.
In many cases, the existing medical methods are able to restore vision. However, when medical interventions do not lead to the desired result, vision impairment can negatively impact an individual's quality of life, both physically and emotionally.
The examination
A thorough ophthalmologic examination should precede the special Low Vision Acuity Test. The goal of this examination is to assess the patient's visual ability in his / her day-to-day activities and to investigate his / her exact needs while performing certain tasks such as reading, watching TV, using a personal computer etc.
After this exam, the low vision specialist will go through a series of specialized tests in order to determine the “functional” disorders of the patient's vision, which will eventually help in the selection of the appropriate low vision aids.
Low vision aids
Low vision aids, also known as Low Vision Optical Devices are the task-specific, adaptive devices whose purpose is to make easier the daily lives of people with severe vision problems. In many cases, they help the patient regain his / her autonomy.
Indicative Low Vision aids are the following:
- Hand-held magnifiers, both with or without built-in lighting
- Telescopic systems
- Prismatic reading glasses
- A wide variety of electronic aids
- Reading magnifiers
- Filters that reduce photophobia and increase contrast
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