Researchers say that annual cases of low vision and blindness are expected to more than double over the next 30 years in the U.S. as the population ages, resulting in a substantial need for more low vision services, as well as the use of those services. Here, the American Optometric Association (AOA) outlines vital information that can help you better understand low vision and the resources available to help you improve your quality of life.*

What are common forms of low vision?

Types of low vision, along with the therapies and tools to help manage them, differ by what structures and functions of the eye are involved, and what symptoms you’re experiencing.

• Loss of central vision. You see a blur or blind spot in your front line of sight, while peripheral (side) vision remains intact. Reading, recognizing faces, etc. may become difficult. Mobility is not usually affected.
• Loss of peripheral vision (aka “tunnel vision”) leaves you unable to see clearly from the side(s), or above and/or below your line of vision. Mobility may become difficult.
• Blurred vision is when both near and distant objects are out of focus, even with glasses.
• Reduced contrast sensitivity affects your ability to perceive clear outlines of small objects or minute differences in shadings and patterns, or distinguish objects from their backgrounds. 
• Glare light sensitivity is when normal light seems overwhelming, and produces a perceived glare and/or faded image. Some people even experience pain during this phenomenon. 
• Night blindness involves not being able to see well outside at night, or in dimly lit interior spaces.

What is low vision rehabilitation?

Vision rehabilitation is designed to maximize daily function with low vision and improve quality of life. This requires a different care approach for each type of low vision. It may involve, for example:

• Prescription glasses or contact lenses
• General magnification devices
• Assistive technology for glare control, and for contrast and visual field enhancement
• Referrals for additional services

Additional services can include:

• Instruction in orientation and mobility
• Occupational therapy
• Vocational rehabilitation
• A psychologist and/or support groups

What does a low vision evaluation entail?

For the evaluation, your doctor will ask you about your:

• Overall health history
• Eye health history
• Vision difficulties, and their impacts on your daily life (re: reading, cooking, computer use, facial recognition, etc.)

You may be screened for depression, as well.  

You’ll also receive a thorough eye exam, complete with tests regarding:

• Visual acuity and visual field
• Contrast sensitivity 
• Glare
• Reading capacity 

After the exam, your doctor will craft a comprehensive rehab plan with you, based on your ability and goals. This may take place over several visits.

Helpful devices for low vision

The AOA says there’s at least one treatment option that can benefit most people with low vision. Yet, only about 20%-25% of those who could benefit from them have consulted an optometrist specializing in low vision.

Example devices commonly prescribed to help people with low vision include:

• Spectacle-mounted magnifiers, which free up hands by having a magnifying lens mounted in eyeglasses or on a headband
• Handheld and stand magnifiers, which can be lighted and are convenient for reading labels and instrument dials
• Handheld or spectacle-mounted miniature telescopes, for seeing longer distances, such as a television across the room, and modifiable for close-up tasks
• Video magnification, in the form of portable, tabletop, or head-mounted devices that magnify images of both distant and nearby objects

Many other tools exist to help the visually impaired, such as large-type books, newspapers, and magazines; screen reading programs; smartphone and computer accessibility features that allow the visually impaired full use; self-threading needles; etc.

Through vision rehabilitation programs, people with low vision can learn how to maximize their remaining sight, make daily life easier, and maintain their independence. Some of these services are now covered by Medicare carriers. Ask your doctor about this coverage.

*American Optometric Association. (n.d.). Low Vision and Vision Rehabilitation. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/low-vision-and-vision-rehab