Low Vision patients are people who have lost portions of their sight due to trauma or pathology in the eye. Unfortunately, they cannot achieve normal functional vision with standard spectacles. Age-related macular degeneration, Retinal detachments, Diabetes and various retinal diseases are some of the most common reasons for low vision.

Fortunately, a large range of quality low vision devices can be used to enhance and improve functional vision. Assessment of your specific needs ensures that the best visual aid is prescribed for you.

Low Vision devices can include, but are not limited to:

High Powered Reading Lenses

High powered reading lenses can be beneficial as it allows the patient to hold the reading material as close as possible to the eye creating natural magnification to enhance reading and near task activities. In many cases, a prism is added to the lenses to assist the two eyes working together at such a near distance.

Magnifiers

Various magnification strengths are available. Magnifiers can be hand-held, stand based or hung around the neck depending on the need of the patient. Many models also come with a build in light to enhance the near vision contrast.

Loops and Microscopes

Standard spectacle lenses can be fitted with special loops and microscopes, to enhance distance or near sight.

Clip on Magnifiers

Standard spectacle lenses can be customized with various strength clip-on magnifiers, to provide 2x to 3x magnification.

Electronic Devices

Various electronic devices are available to enlarge near work. They either have built-in screens or can be connected to a standard TV or computer monitor. Many of them also have settings to invert colours allowing for better contrast ratios.

Advice and Support Groups

Losing vision is always a traumatic experience. Dealing with the situation is very demoralising and frustrating and many people start to lose hope and self-worth. To assist people in this difficult time, various support groups are available to provide moral and practical support. Please feel free to contact us should you require assistance or contact the Durbanville Low Vision Group to attend their monthly meetings.

We can also access the home environment of our low vision patients and make certain recommendations on how to improve functionality and quality of living in their homes.