Assistive Devices and Techniques for People With Low Vision

Low vision can interfere with daily tasks like cooking, reading, watching TV and taking care of your personal needs. In some instances, it can even put your safety at risk. Fortunately, there are a number of assistive devices and techniques that you can use to cope with low vision.

Vienna Eyecare Center, a reputable provider of quality glasses and contact lenses, shares some tips below.

Seeing Better With Visual Devices

Assistive devices for people with low vision typically use magnifying lenses in order to make objects appear bigger and easier to see. The following are some common examples:

• Magnifying spectacles – These are worn like eyeglasses, so you can keep your hands free while reading or doing a close-up task. You may have to hold objects much closer with these magnifying glasses than you would with normal reading glasses or bifocals.
• Hand-held magnifiers – These magnifiers are held over print material.
• Stand magnifiers – These magnifiers rest above the object that you want to see more clearly. They are often ideal for people who have arthritis or a tremor.

Seeing Better With Visual Techniques

Here are some proven strategies that will help you maximize your remaining vision:

• The bigger, the better – Opt for devices with large display screens, watches with enlarged faces, and buttons that are bigger. This way, it’ll be easier for you to tell time or perform some tasks.
• Increase contrast – Use white dishes against a dark-colored tablecloth. This would allow you to see table edges and food more clearly.
• Buddy system – This is especially common among aging adults. With a diminished vision, you might feel a little lonely since you’re no longer able to do some normal things unaided. Finding a support system can be extremely helpful during such times, so try to look for a friend in a similar situation who can help you learn some tips and tricks.

Vienna Eyecare Center offers excellent vision care and personalized optometric services to different types of patients. We always ensure a comfortable atmosphere for our clients, whether they are in for an eye exam or other procedure. Call us at (703) 938-7633 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve customers in Fairfax, Reston and Tysons Corner, VA.