Low vision means that even with regular glasses, contact lenses, medicine or surgery, people find everyday tasks difficult to do. Reading the mail, shopping, cooking, seeing the TV and writing can seem challenging.
Millions of Americans lose some of their vision every year. Irreversible vision loss is most common among people over age 65.
No. Some normal changes in our eyes and vision occur as we get older. However, these changes usually don't lead to low vision.
There are many signs that can signal vision loss. For example, even with your regular glasses, do you have difficulty:
Vision changes like these could be early warning signs of eye disease. Usually, the earlier your problem is diagnosed, the better the chance of successful treatment and keeping your remaining vision.
Regular dilated eye exams should be part of your routine health care. However, if you believe your vision has recently changed, you should see your eye care professional as soon as possible.
Many people with low vision are taking charge. They want more information about devices and services that can help them keep their independence.
It's important to talk with your eye care professional about your vision problems. Even though it may be difficult, ask for help. Find out where you can get more information about services and devices that can help you.
Many people require more than one visual device. They may need magnifying lenses for close-up viewing, and telescopic lenses for seeing in the distance. Some people may need to learn how to get around their neighborhoods.
Ask your eye doctor about vision rehabilitation. These programs offer a wide range of services, such as low vision evaluations and special training to use visual and adaptive devices. They also offer guidance for modifying your home as well as group support from others with low vision.
Be persistent. Remember that you are your best health advocate. Investigate and learn as much as you can, especially if you have been told that you may lose more vision. It is important that you ask questions about vision rehabilitation and get answers. Many resources are available to help you.
Write down questions to ask your doctor, or take a tape recorder with you.
Rehabilitation programs, devices, and technology can help you adapt to vision loss. They may help you keep doing many of the things you did before.
Although many people maintain good vision throughout their lifetimes, people over age 65 are at increased risk of developing low vision. You and your eye care professional or specialist in low vision need to work in partnership to achieve what is best for you. An important part of this relationship is good communication.
Here are some questions to ask your eye care professional or specialist in low vision to get the discussion started:
Information courtesy of the National Eye Institute (NEI).
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