See the Possibilities with Midwest Eye Associates
Low Vision Support in East Missouri
Empowering You to See Beyond Limits
Some vision problems can’t be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. However, there’s hope and help available. Midwest Eye Associates provides comprehensive low vision support to help you maximize your remaining vision and maintain your independence.
Low Vision Explained
Low vision is a visual impairment that cannot be fully corrected with standard glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery. It includes various degrees of vision loss, from blind spots and poor night vision to an almost complete loss of sight. Common types of low vision include:
- Central Vision Loss: Difficulty seeing in the center of the visual field.
- Peripheral Vision Loss: Difficulty seeing in the outer edges of the visual field.
- Night Blindness: Difficulty seeing in low light conditions.
- Blurred Vision: General loss of sharpness.
- Hazy Vision: The sensation of a film or glare obscuring vision.
Does Low Vision Mean You Are Blind?
No, having low vision does not mean you are blind. People with low vision have some useful sight, but their loss of vision makes everyday tasks challenging. With the proper support and visual aids, individuals with low vision can continue to perform daily activities and enjoy a good quality of life.
How Does Low Vision Affect Daily Life?
For people with vision loss, completing daily tasks such as reading, writing, cooking, housework, watching television, driving, and even recognizing people can become a struggle. Being diagnosed with low vision can be a shocking experience.
It often leads to feeling isolated and depressed due to the inability to work, function independently, drive, or resume everyday life. Fortunately, there are numerous resources, aids, and devices available to help maximize remaining vision.
Conditions That Cause Low Vision
Low vision can be caused by various eye diseases and conditions affecting individuals at different stages of life.
At a Young Age:
- Congenital cataracts
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)
- Congenital glaucoma:
- Albinism (a lack of pigment in the eyes)
- Leber’s congenital amaurosis
Later in Life:
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Retinal detachment
- Stroke or head injury
- Optic neuropathy
Optimizing Daily Life with Visual Aids
Visual aids are tools used to enhance visual performance for individuals with low vision. These aids are typically divided into three main categories:
- Non-Optical Aids: These are external tools that make everyday tasks easier. Examples include large-print books, glare-proof sunglasses, and tactile dots that assist with item identification.
- Optical Aids: These include specialized lenses like magnifying glasses, telescopes, and stand magnifiers, which can improve vision for close-up and distance tasks.
- Electronic Aids: A range of advanced technologies, such as closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs), screen readers, video magnifiers, and head-mounted eyewear displays. These devices enhance or replace vision, allowing individuals to read, write, and navigate their environments more effectively.
Tips for Living with Low Vision
Living with low vision can be challenging, but these tips can help:
- Use Adequate Lighting: Ensure your living spaces are well-lit.
- Organize Your Space: Keep frequently used items in specific places.
- Use High-Contrast Items: Choose colors that contrast well to make them easier to see.
- Label Items: Use large print or tactile labels on essential items.
- Utilize Technology: Use devices like smartphones and tablets with accessibility features.
- Seek Support: Connect with support groups or counseling to cope with the emotional aspects of vision loss.
Low Vision Consultations at Midwest Eye Associates
If you or a loved one are experiencing low vision, schedule an eye exam with our optometrists. We will provide a comprehensive evaluation and develop a personalized plan to help you maximize your remaining vision and maintain your independence.