Age-related macular degeneration, diabetes and glaucoma are some of the most common causes of low vision. This condition can limit a person from doing their daily activities, from reading and watching television to taking care of themselves. Fortunately, there are different low vision aids available today to help these individuals go on with their everyday tasks.
Keep reading to learn more about these assistive devices and techniques from a local low vision specialist.
Indoors, adjust the lights to prevent them from creating glare, and cover shiny surfaces. When heading outside, you can wear a ball cap, brimmed hat, or wrap-around sunglasses to protect your eyes from glare. In the areas of your home without as much lighting, replace bulbs with higher-watt ones or add more lamps. Another thing that can help is to increase contrast on surfaces.
For instance, you can place colored placemats or tablecloths with white dishes. As much as possible, use heavy, bold felt tip markers when writing lists or taking notes.
If you have low vision, your eye doctor may recommend you wear magnifying spectacles, which you wear like standard glasses. You can use this device for reading and other close-up tasks. Two other devices you can use are stand and handheld magnifiers. Stand magnifiers rest above the material you are looking at. Meanwhile, handheld ones are held over print, and they can come with built-in lights.
Watches and other devices feature audible notifications to measure your blood sugar levels and blood pressure. People with low vision can benefit from print materials and devices with large prints. Audiobooks are great as they allow you to listen to your favorite books. You can also try Kindle and Nook. These devices let you adjust the size of the texts and their contrast.
For your low vision needs, know that Joel H McGahen OD is here to help. We also offer eyeglasses and contact lenses. Call us at (717) 264-4012 or fill out our contact form to schedule your appointment. We serve patients in Shippensburg and Greencastle, PA, as well as nearby communities in Pennsylvania.