Low Vision Management
Comprehensive Low Vision Management
Benefits of Low Vision Management
Low vision affects 25% of adults over the age of 85 and is defined as a visual impairment that cannot be corrected by eyeglasses. The impairment is primarily an acquired condition caused by Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, or Diabetic Neuropathy.
When a person has low vision, it can often lead to isolation from daily routines due to lack of visual awareness of the environment. Modification to the person’s home and his or her approach to the environment can help the affected individual to get fully engaged in life again. Learning safe, effective ways of performing the essential activities of daily living such as self care or cooking will allow the low vision client to regain control once more!
Low Vision Rehabilitation
- Assessment of visual acuity, contrast sensitivity function and visual field integrity. Handwriting and reading ability are assessed.
- Adaptation of home environment by maximizing visual contrast and improving
- Maximization of residual, but still functional vision, by helping clients use their preferred retinal locus, a part of the retina that is still functional and can be facilitated by using magnification.
- Enhancement of safety by eliminating clutter, creating clear pathways and illuminating important landmarks such as stairs and stove burners with contrast.
- Assurance of optimal lighting by minimizing glare and maximizing lumens.
- Incorporation of scanning techniques to accommodate for visual field loss.
Multi-Disciplinary Approach
- Occupational Therapy leads the integrated effort to accomplish the most benefits for the client.
- Social Workers assist in the clients accessing low vision equipment and social services.
- Nursing provides medication management in the context of the disability.
- Physical Therapy maximizes balance and decreases likelihood of falls.