Common reasons for low vision include:
- Macular degeneration
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma
The visual loss associated with these conditions means eventually it is not possible to correct the vision loss with stronger spectacles. However, with early central vision loss your Optometrist may be able to assist you with a stronger reading add in your bifocals.
Today there are many accessible services available for assisting people with low vision. Electronic devices such as smart phones and tablets can be an invaluable tool for accessing many of these services which may provide assistance in daily living activities. Visual loss can affect may areas of your daily life such as reading, writing, managing finances, cooking, driving, participating in hobbies and social activities, your mobility, using the phone, seeing the time, managing your medications, watching TV or using the computer or electronic devices, shopping, and grooming.
The earlier you start having a discussion about strategies for coping with visual loss in your environment, the better prepared you will be should your vision deteriorate further. Low vision patients are more than 3 times likely to suffer from depression, therefore support groups and assistance in daily living is a discussion you need to have with your family and medical provider. With visual loss it may mean there is not a lot we can do to improve your macular, but we want you to improve your Quality of Life using the resources available to you.
Organisations which can provide support and offer advice, such as making the most out of your current lever of vision with using visual aides and magnifiers, include Vision Australia, the Guide Dog Association, the Macular Degeneration Foundation, and Glaucoma Australia to name a few.
Links to their websites are listed below: