The Importance of Low Vision Aids

Vision changes can happen at any age. However, adults aged 65 and over have higher risks for conditions like age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts and glaucoma. For some, wearing glasses or switching to bifocals or transitional lenses helps, but for others, greater magnification becomes necessary to read and get through other daily activities.

An estimated 4 million Americans live with low vision - a condition that can't be addressed with glasses and that becomes disabling with time. Conditions may affect your full vision, resulting in reduced clarity and depth perception, or just your peripheral vision.

Low vision aids like magnifiers, monitors and other enhancers help you maintain your quality of life:

• Continue reading - from books, magazines and newspapers to mail to your computer screen.
• Get the degree of clarity needed to watch TV or read a recipe.
• Low-vision aids take into account multiple factors that could be impacting visibility; in turn, solutions are portable or come with a built-in light or speech function.

Exploring Low-Vision Aids and Magnifiers

Unsure about the right low-vision aid for your needs? Take the following factors into account:

• Where and how often you'll be reading something.
• What you'll be reading - from labels and recipes to books and computer screens.
• Magnification and enhancement for activities, from watching television to cooking and sewing to driving.
• The degree of vision impairment.
• Any cognitive considerations.

Due to varying environments, individuals may turn to multiple magnifiers and enhancers based on task and situation. Start exploring solutions online now, or contact our customer care specialists with your questions.