Low Vision

There is no specific definition for low vision. The term low vision implies that there is a reduction in either visual acuity and/or visual field. There have been a variety of acuity levels used to classify a patient as having low vision. Acuity should only be one factor when defining a person as having low vision. Performance is a more realistic criterion for determining a disability level. For example, two people with 20/70 vision can be affected entirely differently. A truck driver who drives for a living will not be able to perform the job; however, waiters or waitresses most likely would be able to perform most of the tasks required of their job.

Legal Blindness

Legal blindness is defined as the best corrected visual acuity in the better eye that is less than or equal to 20/200 or, a visual field that is less than or equal to 20 degrees in the widest diameter.

What is a Low Vision Specialist?

A low vision specialist is an eye-care provider who specializes in the evaluation of a patient with impaired vision and prescribes optical devices. These devices include microscopes, magnifiers and electronic devices for near tasks and spectacle and telescopes for distance tasks.

What is a Low Vision Examination?

The initial low vision examination will typically be 1-1 ½ hours.

A low vision examination is an optical and functional evaluation to determine whether the patient's vision can be enhanced to enable the patient to participate in desired activities. The examination should include an exploration of optical and nonoptical systems, in addition to the patient's perceptual and physiological skills. When coordinated with other optometric, medical, education and rehabilitative services, the end results should enable the patient to maximize his or her sight.

To set the stage for that process, low vision refraction must be performed when conventional refractive techniques have been tried and failed. The use of radical retinoscopic techniques; subjective testing with trial frame, trial lenses, telescopes and other distance optical devices; modified optotypes, target positioning, lighting and other visual modifiers are used to determine the following:

• Whether conventional lens can be appropriately modified, not necessarily for quantitative measurements but for improved qualitative acuities.
• Whether a conventional lens prescription, in combination with additional distance optics (e.g., telescopes, electro-optical systems), near optics (e.g., microscopes, hand-held and stand magnifiers, electro-optical systems), field-awareness systems (e.g., mirrors, prisms, reversed telescopies), or nonoptical devices could be used to improve sight and visual performance.

A low vision examination is not a medical evaluation to determine eye health. Such an evaluation should be performed by the referring practitioner as justification for additional specialized services. It is imperative that the patient have a primary care optometrist or ophthalmologist who can monitor any eye conditions that could result in eye health problems or further vision loss. Patients are always encouraged to return to the primary care eye doctor for continued care at regular intervals.

Following the low vision examination, Andersen Eye Associates has many low vision aids that patients may try on a trial basis.

Flipper

The innovative design of this rotating camera makes reading, writing and viewing magnified images easy. The Flipper connects to any TV or monitor in seconds. It provides distance, intermediate and near viewing. Images can be magnified in full color with auto-focus up to 24 times (distance). Ideal for classrooms and hobbies.

Merlin

The Merlin is the most advanced desktop model available. It features a full-color display with auto-focus, four display modes, dial magnification up to 66x and extra large working area. Enables a patient to read, write, work and enjoy hobbies. Merlin is also affordably priced.

The Max

The most powerful, affordable and compact hand-held digital magnifier. Connects to any TV or computer. Magnify type or photos up to 28x using dial control. Available in black and white or full color with auto-focus.

JORDY

Two systems in one. Light-weight, portable device that makes it easy to see again. It is battery operated and features a full-color display with auto-focus, a wide field of view and up to 30x magnification. JORDY is designed for people with active lifestyles. See near, far and any distance in between. Enjoy a movie, work more productively and more.

Handy Magnifiers

Why strain your eyes when you don't have to? With a hand-held reading magnifier, you can relax and enjoy reading.

Illuminated Magnifiers

The correct lighting directly impacts your ability to see. When it's dark outside, or on cloudy days, you can brighten what you see with an illuminated magnifier.

Binocular Telescopes

Would you like to watch TV again but glasses are just not enough? Consult the Andersen Low Vision Specialist, who can have special glasses made for you that include an integrated telescope.

Also available are telescopes for driving, reading telescopes and bifocal microscopes.

The Low Vision Team at Andersen Eye Associates is dedicated to helping find a solution for every vision need and enhancing your life.