Low Vision

Low Vision cannot be corrected
or repaired

The National Institute of Aging (part of the National Institute of Health) published an article on Low Vision which we wanted to share. Visit the "Age Page" of the National Institute on Aging's web page to learn more about how to protect your eyesight.

Low vision means you cannot fix your eyesight with glasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery. Low vision affects some people as they age.

You may have low vision if you:

• Have trouble seeing well enough to do everyday tasks like reading, cooking, or sewing
• Can’t recognize the faces of friends or family
• Have trouble reading street signs
• Find that lights don’t seem as bright

If you have any of these problems, ask your eye care professional to test you for low vision. There are special tools and aids to help people with low vision read, write, and manage daily tasks. These include large-print reading materials, magnifying aids, closed-circuit televisions, audio tapes, electronic reading machines, and computers with large print and a talking function. Sometimes changing the type of lighting in your room can help.
Other changes that may help are:
• Write with bold, black felt-tip markers.
• Use paper with bold lines to help you write in a straight line.
• Put colored tape on the edge of your steps to help you see them and prevent you from falling.
• Install dark-colored light switches and electrical outlets that you can see easily against light-colored walls.
• Use motion lights that turn on by themselves when you enter a room. These may help you avoid accidents caused by poor lighting.
• Use telephones, clocks, and watches with large numbers; put large-print labels on the microwave and stove.
• Ask your eye doctor if your vision is okay for safe driving.

Low Vision Cocoons Sunglasses

ElderStore carries a special kind of sunglasses! Low Vision Cocoons are OverRx sunglasses - they fit over your prescription lenses. And, they were created especially for those with Low Vision.