Patients with reasonably good BCVA may still have substantial visual deficits. Third, earlier referrals allow more time for the patient and the low vision specialist to build a rapport and reduce or prevent stress, anxiety, or depression, any of which may interfere with visual rehabilitation. Second, when a patient is referred to a low vision specialist in the early stages of visual impairment, he or she may be more accepting of additional interventional measures, such as assistive technologies like the Job Access With Speech (JAWS Freedom Scientific) screen reader. Additionally, patients may benefit from simply holding reading material closer. At early stages, these aids may include electronic reading devices (eg, Kindle, Nook, iPad), brighter reading lights (eg, OttLite), high-plus reading lenses, and handheld magnifiers (Figure). First, when visual impairment is in its early stages, the magnification and special devices a patient requires will be relatively less intensive, and the patient may more readily accept these interventions. In general, it is better to refer a patient to a low vision expert earlier rather than later for several reasons. Demonstration of the use of a handheld video magnifier.

With the number of patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and other related conditions on the rise, it is important for retina specialists to determine how patients with low vision can best be served. Low vision specialists seek to maximize these patients’ remaining vision through the use of devices such as telescopes, magnifiers, video magnifiers, special absorptive filters, and computer technologies. Early involvement with a low vision specialist and referral to a psychosocial specialist may improve overall functional outcomes.Īccording to the National Eye Institute (NEI), 3 low vision is defined as best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of less than 6/12 (20/40) in the better-seeing eye of a patient not considered blind.īy definition, the vision of patients with low vision cannot be further improved (to better than 20/40) with standard refraction or currently available pharmacologic or surgical interventions.When visual impairment is in its early stages, the amount of magnification and special devices a patient requires are less intensive, and the patient may more readily accept these interventions.Low vision is more than special magnifiers and devices it is also about helping the visually impaired lead more independent, happier lives.

Scott schwartz bryn mawr pennsylvania