Low Vision Can Lead to Challenges

 Everyday activities may be difficult with limited sight

Low vision is vision loss that is uncorrectable through glasses, surgeries, or medications. Low vision impacts one’s ability to complete everyday activities. One in ten people over age 80 have this issue, but many are unaware of what it is and what can be done about it.

The first signs of low vision may be trouble reading, driving (especially at night), or recognizing people’s faces. An increase in falls can also be an indicator of low vision. Different eye conditions—from age-related macular degeneration or glaucoma to diabetic retinopathy—cause various vision challenges. However, all the conditions that cause low vision can make everyday activities more difficult!

It is important to note that, while one’s chances of low vision increase with age, permanent sight loss or going blind is not a normal part of aging. 

Living with Low Vision

In the case of low vision, sight cannot improve. However, individuals can live with low vision and continue to be active and engaged. There are strategies and tools available to help patients adjust to current vision. These supports range from magnification and environmental changes to learning how to use different senses (such as touch or hearing). 

Service professionals, such as a low vision specialist, can work with patients to develop a comprehensive rehabilitation plan. This plan will be developed with the individual’s personal goals in mind. Goals may range from regaining employment to staying safe in the home. No matter what the patient may want to  do, there are hundreds of resources available to help. 

Losing your sight does not mean losing your independence. There are many services, supports, and professionals available to help. With assistance in place, many people with low vision go on to live full lives.

If you or someone you know is experiencing low vision, learn more about what can be done to help. Connect with the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington (POB), a nonprofit with free services and resources for people with vision loss, at (301) 951-4444.

Low Vision Resources

Aging eye conditions, such as age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma, can cause permanent vision loss that affects independence and quality of life. Called low vision, this vision loss can make everyday activities seem impossible. The good news: there is still much that can be done! Join us for a live & interactive discussion to learn about the latest in in vision rehabilitation and available community resources and services. 

https://www.youreyes.org/

• Suleiman Alibhai O.D, F.A.A.O 
• Sean Curry, MPH Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington®