Low Vision Consultation
Our Low Vision exams are between one-and-a-half hours to two hours.
We do the standard pre-testing and examination.
1. After pre-testing, we start with a detailed case history and check visual acuities at both distance and near with specialised charts.
2. We perform a refraction to find the best possible prescription for the patient and from there assess what the patient can see compared to what they need to be able to see and what activity they want to do. This allows us to determine what device and what strength of that device is needed.
7. Devices include magnifiers (pocket, hand-held, dome or stand), telescopes, filters, and reading lamps.
3. We also assess non-optical adaptations (adjust lights, contrast, viewing distances, etc) and look at any cell phone, tablet, or computer the patient may have, using their features and applications to benefit and assist the patient as much as possible.
6. Follow-up appointments are made on a case-to-case basis if needed, but we do encourage at least one follow-up appointment a few weeks after the initial visit to find out how the patient is managing.
5. We provide training for any devices prescribed, either at the end of the consult or we schedule a training session for the patient and discuss practical advice on navigating life with Low Vision.
4. We then gather information about the patient’s home/work environment and make suggestions on adaptations to make work and home life as simple and easy as possible.
1. After pre-testing, we start with a detailed case history and check visual acuities at both distance and near with specialised charts.
2. We perform a refraction to find the best possible prescription for the patient and from there assess what the patient can see compared to what they need to be able to see and what activity they want to do. This allows us to determine what device and what strength of that device is needed.
3. We also assess non-optical adaptations (adjust lights, contrast, viewing distances, etc) and look at any cell phone, tablet, or computer the patient may have, using their features and applications to benefit and assist the patient as much as possible.
4. We then gather information about the patient’s home/work environment and make suggestions on adaptations to make work and home life as simple and easy as possible.
5. We provide training for any devices prescribed, either at the end of the consult or we schedule a training session for the patient and discuss practical advice on navigating life with Low Vision.
6. Follow-up appointments are made on a case-to-case basis if needed, but we do encourage at least one follow-up appointment a few weeks after the initial visit to find out how the patient is managing.
7. Devices include magnifiers (pocket, hand-held, dome or stand), telescopes, filters, and reading lamps.
Low Vision is the term used to describe a permanent, irreversible loss of vision that cannot be fully corrected by ordinary spectacles or surgical intervention. Causes of this would include conditions like macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, stroke, and glaucoma. This kind of vision loss has a significant impact on the affected person’s day-to-day life. Basic activities that might be taken for granted, such as being able to read the newspaper, seeing the food on their plate, watching television, and reading a message on their phone, can become very challenging.
A Low Vision assessment starts with a comprehensive eye examination which includes intra-ocular pressure measurements, retinal photographs and scans, and automated refraction as standard. The subjective refraction aspect is specifically tailored to the Low Vision patient by incorporating specialised charts to evaluate vision, both at a distance and near. Once this is complete, we then look at how to best assist the patient in performing important tasks that they are experiencing the most difficulty with.
Our main aim during a Low Vision consultation is to optimise the vision of the person we are seeing. Although we cannot restore lost vision, our specialised consultations focus on improving functionality according to every patient’s specific requirement. We aim to make full use of the remaining vision of the patient and make recommendations accordingly to improve the quality of their daily lives. We also look at possible devices that can assist us in our goal of optimal vision and a more comfortable daily life. These may include devices like stronger than normal reading glasses, magnifiers, or various lighting options.
Any Low Vision device that we prescribe is specifically chosen to assist each patient satisfy their individual wants and needs. We carefully evaluate the patient to determine that the correct type of device and the relevant strength of the device would be optimal for them. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to Low Vision devices. We offer personalised advice and training in the use and integration of the new Low Vision device into the patient’s daily life.
Before having a comprehensive Low Vision assessment, we do recommend that one has their eyes assessed by an ophthalmologist to ensure they have received the best possible medical treatment. A report from an ophthalmologist outlining the ocular pathology and current treatment would allow us to even better serve the needs of the patient whilst working with the treating ophthalmologist in a symbiotic fashion.