Technology, Tools and Rehabilitation Can Help Seniors with Low Vision Maintain Their Independence

Each day, approximately 10,000 Americans turn 65, and one in six adults this age and older has a vision impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.[1]

As part of its support for Low Vision Awareness Month this February, the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Scottsdale Eye Physicians and Surgeons, PC are providing older adults with low vision guidance on how to make the most of their remaining sight and keep their independence.

An estimated 2.9 million Americans have low vision, which makes it difficult or impossible for them to accomplish activities such as reading, writing, shopping, watching television, driving a car or recognizing faces. Low vision can be caused by eye diseases that are more common in older people, such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

Fortunately, there are many strategies and resources available to people with low vision that can help them overcome these challenges. The American Academy of Ophthalmology and Scottsdale Eye Physicians and Surgeons, PC recommends that people with low vision and those who care for them follow these tips:

• Make things bigger – Sit closer to the television or to the stage at performances. Get large books, phone dials and playing cards. Carry magnifiers for help with menus, prescription bottles and price tags.
• Make things brighter – Make sure areas are well-lit and cover shiny surfaces to reduce glare. Consider increasing color contrasts as well. For instance, drink coffee from a white mug and always use a felt-tipped pen with black ink.
• Use technology – Many of today’s newer technologies have applications that can help with low vision. For example, e-readers allow users to adjust the font size and contrast. Many smartphones and tablets can also be used to magnify print, identify cash bills and provide voice-navigated directions.
• Organize and label – Designate spots for your keys, wallet and frequently-used items in your refrigerator. Mark thermostats and dials with high contrast markers from a fabric store; label medications with markers or rubber bands; and safety-pin labels onto similarly colored clothing to tell them apart.
• Don’t isolate yourself – Keep your social group, volunteer job, or golf game. It might require lighting, large print cards, a magnifier, a ride, or someone to watch your golf ball. Ask for the help you need.
• Consider low vision rehabilitation – If you have low vision, you can greatly improve your quality of life through vision rehabilitation, which teaches you how to use your remaining vision more effectively. Talk with your eye doctor to determine if referral for low vision rehabilitation is right for you.

Having low vision does not mean giving up your activities, but it does mean finding new ways of doing them. If you think you may have low vision, schedule an appointment with one of our Doctors right away. The faster you receive care, the faster you can return to doing the things you enjoy and do them more independently.

Call 480-994-1872 to make an appointment or make on online here! 

This article reprinted with permission from the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s EyeSmart® program (http://www.geteyesmart.org)

[1] http://www.pewresearch.org/daily-number/baby-boomers-retire/