Low vision means vision loss that can’t be resolved by typical means, like surgery or eyeglasses. People with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy are familiar with its everyday challenges such as blind spots, blurriness, central or peripheral vision loss, and lack of depth perception. The good news, say experts at the University of Utah’s Moran Eye Center, is that there are a variety of assistive devices that can make daily life less challenging.*

First, Get an Eye Exam

Moran’s vision rehabilitation specialist, Robert M. Christiansen, M.D., explains that before his low vision patients visit him or start exploring assistive devices, they must first have their eyes examined by their ophthalmologist. In doing so, any possible treatments for their low vision can be ruled out and they can better choose the correct assistive device. “[C]hoosing the wrong device can be worse than no device at all,” he says. “Once they have a complete diagnosis, we can work together to make the most of their vision.”

Consider These Eight (8) Assistive Devices

People with low vision have a wide variety of available options in terms of assistive devices. Christiansen, and Moran’s Patient Support Program Director Lisa Ord, LCSW, Ph.D., discuss some of their favorite ones.

• Strong bifocals. Strong bifocals can be a tremendous help. Bifocals are eyeglasses with lenses that have two different optical powers. Typically, the upper half of the lens corrects for blurred vision when viewing objects far away, while the lower half corrects for blurred vision when viewing objects close up.
• Handheld magnifiers. Reading smaller print can be made easier with handheld magnifiers. They also come in electronic versions resembling a tablet computer. When held before reading material, they display a magnified view on their LED screen.
• Video magnifiers. These are desktop electronic magnifiers that use a camera to magnify printed material onto a display screen.
• Small telescopes or binoculars. These devices can assist with viewing distant objects, or events such as sports games and concerts.
• Filters. Either filter eyeglasses or clip-on versions that fit over eyeglasses can improve contrast for people with certain kinds of low vision or photosensitivity.
• Bump dots. These are adhesive tactile stickers that assist with identification of kitchen appliance settings, remote control buttons, keyboards, washer/dryer settings, etc.
• Special keyboards. Computer keyboards with large print and backlighting can improve contrast for low-vision users.
• Voice software. Voice-to-text and text-to-voice software programs are available for phones and computers.

An ophthalmologist can advise you regarding specific devices, device strength, and where the devices can be purchased.

Your Smartphone as an Assistive Device

Today’s smartphones come with many built-in features like voice commands, magnifiers, and talking voicemail. On top of that, there are dozens of apps available for people with low vision. One reputable free app is Be My Eyes, which connects people with sighted volunteers who provide visual assistance over live video. Other apps use artificial intelligence to help people navigate their surroundings.

When it comes to this technology, says Ord, “Your best bet for learning about all the options and getting one-on-one instruction to make the best use of a smartphone is to visit your local blind center.”

*Moran Eye Center. (2022, May 9). Experts Share Top Tips to Make Living with Low Vision Easier and Safer. University of Utah. https://healthcare.utah.edu/healthfeed/postings/2022/05/low-vision-tech.php