What is Low Vision and Low Vision Care?

Low Vision is a condition in which vision cannot be corrected by glasses, contact lenses or surgery. People who have vision loss are said to be visually impaired or to have Low Vision. Their vision loss is usually caused by an underlying eye disease such as:

• Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
• Diabetic Retinopathy
• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• Other eye diseases and conditions

Those with Low Vision typically have difficulty reading, writing, watching television, recognizing people’s faces or engaging in other daily living tasks. Fortunately, the visually impaired can be helped with a service called Low Vision Care. Low Vision Care is professional care provided by Dixon Hempenstall. We specialise in helping patients maximise their remaining vision. This care involves an evaluation, and the use of solutions called low vision aids that include both magnification devices such as magnifiers and non-optical products such as task lighting.

Products: Low Vision Aids & Magnification Devices

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the leading cause of Low Vision, followed by diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. A variety of other conditions such as in-operable or pre-operative cataracts, and other hereditary diseases can also cause impaired vision.

Low Vision affects many Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), and many people are restricted due to the acuity levels with which they must live. Difficulty with reading, writing, watching TV, spotting objects from a distance, and enjoying hobbies is the result. However, with the correct optical device and training, many Low Vision patients can once again perform daily normal life activities and regain much of their lost independence.

Should you or a family member wish to have a Low Vision Assessment, please contact us.

Some of our products can be viewed below.