Low vision: Expert talks about its long-term, short-term impact; lists management tips
Low vision affects over 246 million people globally and can make everyday tasks like reading or recognizing faces a struggle. Ms. Salai Dhavamathi J., Optometry expert at Manipal College of Health Professions, explains the long- and short-term impacts of low vision—and how early intervention, assistive devices, and personalized rehabilitation can greatly improve quality of life.
New Delhi: Vision is one of the most precious senses that allows us to perceive the world around us. However, millions of people worldwide suffer from low vision, a condition where visual impairment cannot be fully corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 246 million people globally experience low vision, significantly impacting their daily lives. Ms. Salai Dhavamathi J, Assistant Professor -Senior Scale, Department of Optometry, Manipal College of Health Professions, MAHE, Manipal, spoke about the impact of low vision and what can be done to address the same.
Understanding Low Vision and Its Impact:
Low vision is different from total blindness—it refers to a permanent loss of vision that makes activities like reading, writing, recognizing faces, or walking independently challenging. Conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and congenital disorders are common causes.
Individuals with low vision often struggle with daily tasks, leading to reduced independence, emotional distress, and lower quality of life. This is why early intervention and rehabilitation play a crucial role in enhancing their functional vision and helping them adapt.
Why Low Vision Awareness Matters:
Raising awareness about low vision is essential because many people are unaware of the available rehabilitation services and assistive devices. Unlike conventional eyeglasses or medical treatments, low vision care focuses on maximizing the remaining vision through specialised aids and training.
The customized solutions that will help enhance the visual abilities of individuals are as follows:
Low Vision Assessment & Personalised Solutions
Every individual’s visual needs are unique. Optometrists conduct a thorough evaluation, assessing visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, glare sensitivity, and field of vision to determine the best possible intervention.
Optical and Non-Optical Assistive Devices
To help individuals maximise their residual vision, we provide a variety of low vision aids, including:
1. Optical Aids: High-powered magnifying glasses, telescopic spectacles, and bioptic lenses.
2. Electronic Aids: CCTV magnifiers, screen readers, and digital magnifiers.
3. Non-Optical Aids: Large-print books, high-contrast reading materials, proper lighting, and bold markers.
Vision Rehabilitation and Training
The low vision rehabilitation program focuses on enhancing independence through training and assistive technology. This includes:
1. Orientation & Mobility Training: Teaching individuals how to navigate safely using mobility canes or GPS-based tools.
2. Daily Living Skills Training: Helping individuals adapt to low vision in their home and workplace environments.
3. Adaptive Technology Guidance: Training on voice-assisted devices, smartphones, and specialized computer software for low vision users.
Spreading Awareness and Support:
If you or a loved one is experiencing difficulties due to low vision, know that help is available. Early intervention and the right assistive tools can transform lives, enabling individuals to regain independence and confidence. Together, we can help everyone see beyond their limitations.