Understanding Low Vision: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

As we age, we often experience changes in our vision. One such change that can be particularly challenging is the loss of vision. Low vision is a condition in which vision loss is not fully correctable with glasses, contact lenses, medication, or even surgery. Unlike total blindness, individuals with low vision have some useful sight or functional vision remaining. However, the quality of this sight may be significantly compromised, making everyday tasks difficult.

Understanding the Causes of Low Vision

There are several causes of low vision, many of which are related to other health conditions. Some of the most common causes include macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts. Each of these conditions can become significant visual impairments, ultimately leading to low vision if not properly managed.

Macular degeneration, for instance, is an age-related disease that affects the retina, the back layer of the eye.  When macular degeneration develops, vision can become blurred or wavy and a blind spot may develop in the center of vision. Central vision loss from macular degeneration can make it difficult to do things that require sharp vision, such as reading, sewing, cooking, or driving; and it can also make it difficult to see in dim light. In addition to these conditions, visual impairments can also be caused by eye injuries or genetic disorders. It's important to identify and treat these underlying conditions to prevent further vision loss.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Low Vision

The symptoms of low vision can vary widely, depending on the underlying cause. Some people may experience a gradual loss of vision, while others may lose their vision more suddenly. The most common symptoms of low vision include difficulty reading or seeing details, problems with glare, difficulty recognizing faces, and trouble navigating due to poor peripheral vision.

Other symptoms may include a decreased intensity or brightness of colors, difficulty adapting to light levels, and problems with depth perception. In some cases, individuals with low vision may also have blind spots in their field of vision.

A Look at Low Vision Management

Managing low vision involves a combination of medical treatments, vision rehabilitation, and the use of specialized devices and tools. The goal of low vision rehabilitation is to maximize an individual's remaining vision and help them maintain their independence and quality of life. Working collectively with their team to offer a comprehensive service model, a low vision provider delivers holistic care for each individual client in order to achieve their rehabilitation goals and maintain their independence.

 

The Importance of Low Vision Rehabilitation

Low vision rehabilitation is a personalized plan to help individuals with low vision maintain their independence and quality of life. An eye doctor who specializes in this field will assess the individual's vision, identify their goals, and develop a plan to achieve these goals.

Rehabilitation strategies may include training in the use of visual aids, techniques for maximizing remaining vision, and strategies for performing daily activities.

Devices and Tools for Low Vision

There are many devices and tools available that can help individuals with low vision. These range from simple magnifying glasses to high-tech devices such as portable magnifiers, telescopic lenses, low-vision glasses, and screen-reading software. The type of device that is most effective will depend on the individual's specific vision needs.

Magnifying glasses, for example, can be helpful for tasks that require detailed vision, like reading or sewing. For individuals with difficulty seeing at a distance, telescopic glasses may be beneficial. There are also devices that can help with light sensitivity and glare, like sunglasses with various shades of tint..

For those with more severe vision loss, electronic devices like video magnifiers or screen-reading software can be extremely beneficial. These tools can magnify text or images, change the contrast for easier viewing, or even read text out loud.

Navigating the World of Low Vision

Living with  a visual impairment can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and resources, individuals with low vision can lead fulfilling lives. Understanding the causes and symptoms of your visual impairment is the first step to managing this condition. From there, working with a low vision specialist and using appropriate devices and tools can greatly improve your quality of life.


If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of low vision, consult our professionals at Beacon Vision Center in our Dallas, Texas, office. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest quality eye care to individuals with visual impairments or blinding conditions. Please call (214) 420-5090 to schedule an appointment today.