Low vision develops more often in older adults since they’re more likely to have many of the eye diseases that can lead to it, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. At 103 years old, Ida Wheeler is part of this population, with extensive vision loss from advanced AMD. Until she met with low vision rehabilitation specialist Donald C. Fletcher, M.D., she believed nothing could help her to gain more independence. Learn how low vision rehabilitation can help improve your quality of life.*

Hope at any age

Ida Wheeler, she says that she used to be able to read The New York Times by magnifying the type, but this method stopped working for her. Once she passed her 100th birthday, she figured that her life with low vision would just keep getting harder. Speaking of her initial consultation with Fletcher about finding new ways of staying connected with the world, however, she says the appointment gave her “extra hope.” Fletcher has since helped Wheeler maximize the vision she has left.

How can low vision rehabilitation help?

Low vision rehabilitation is designed to help people make the most of what vision they have, Fletcher explains, so they can continue doing their daily tasks and activities. It’s not intended to restore vision.

What’s involved in low vision rehabilitation?

One of the main facets of low vision rehabilitation is connecting people to products, services, and other resources that can immediately make their lives easier. 

Vision enhancement is used early on, Fletcher says. It’s very common for people with low vision to be unaware of “macular blind spots,” for example. Once people become aware, they’re able to find ways to reposition their eyes and move them around these spots.

As for helpful products, he adds, a common tool is a hand-held magnifier with a lens and sometimes a light to help with reading. Other devices that he’s found useful include:

• Electronic magnifiers,
• Google Home and Google Assistant, which can help identify objects in your environment, and
• Amazon’s Alexa, which enables you to ask questions and access information without having to look it up. 

When shopping for low vision care

The American Academy of Ophthalmology lists factors to consider when looking for low vision rehabilitation.

• Is there an evaluation for low vision by an ophthalmologist or optometrist?
• Are prescribed devices available for loan before buying? If not, are they returnable?
• Does the training include reading, writing, cooking, shopping, lighting, and glare control?
• Does the program involve home assessment, mobility, resources, and support groups?

Are the services free, or are they billed to Medicare or private insurance? What would be your out-of-pocket costs? 

Fletcher advises veterans to contact the Veterans Administration, which usually covers low vision evaluation and devices. Children have access to additional devices and services through schools, early intervention programs, and the American Printing House. 

*American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2019, April 26). Vision Rehabilitation Revitalizes 103-Year-Old Woman [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j4Mcx-82Dzw&t=29s