What can I do if I have Low Vision?
There are many places you can go for help if you have low vision. Local and national agencies can provide information about support and rehabilitation services, as well as other resources. Stay positive about the challenges of living with low vision. You may need to develop new skills for daily living. Learn as much as you can about local resources and rehabilitation services that are available. It will make adjusting easier if you are prepared ahead of time.
Local Low Vision programs may offer a variety of services, such as low vision evaluations and special training to use visual and adaptive devices. They may also offer guidance for modifying your home as well as group support from others with low vision.
What does a Low Vision exam include?
To determine the extent of your useful vision, you will need to have your eyes examined. The examination for low vision however, differs from the typical eye exam. Because low vision exams may involve a variety of tests, they are generally more time consuming then standard eye examinations. During a low vision exam your doctor may administer the following tests:
• Refraction (to assess your vision and determine the prescription for your glasses, if glasses may be of any use)
• Visual field (to assess your peripheral vision)
• Ocular motility (to assess how well your eyes move)
Make sure to ask your doctor questions and speak openly about your questions and concerns.
What does a Low Vision program consist of?
The goal of a low vision program is to teach ways to use your remaining vision to the fullest. Low vision programs are designed to facilitate safe performance of self-care tasks and activities of daily living, including:
• Learning how to safely enjoy cooking again
• Learning how to safely take your own medications
• Learning how to safely bathe and dress again
• Learning how to safely live alone
• Learning to safely travel from place to place
• Learning to enjoy leisure activities again
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