What is low vision?
Low vision is a permanent reduction in vision - such as blurry vision, blind spots, or loss of peripheral sight, that cannot be corrected by glasses, contact lenses, or surgery, making daily tasks like reading or driving difficult. It affects functioning, with common causes including age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetes.
What causes low vision?
There are many reasons however the most common include age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetes and eye trauma.
How is low vision diagnosed?
Low vision is usually diagnosed through a comprehensive low vision evaluation, often following a routine eye test when glasses or contact lenses cannot fully correct your sight. An optometrist or ophthalmologist conducts specific tests to measure visual acuity, peripheral vision (field of vision), contrast sensitivity and functional ability for daily tasks.
Low vision is classified through a formal Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI) process, usually by a hospital eyecare specialist. There are two categories of CVI: Sight Impaired (partially sighted) and Severely Sight Impaired (blind). These classifications are based on visual acuity (how well you can see) and your field of view.
How can we help with low vision?
For patients with poor visual acuity (how well you can see), we can help with your referral to a hospital eyecare specialist for further investigation or a formal low vision diagnosis. Whether you have a formal diagnosis or not, we offer holistic advice to help you cope with everyday tasks and a range of vision aids like magnifiers and electronic devices to support you.
Low vision support at NHK Opticians . . .
Low vision assessments . . .
If you do not require intervention from an outside low vision specialist, we can refer you to our own low vision practitioner, at our Callington practice.
Devices to help with low vision
Often a simple magnifying glass will provide the appropriate level of improvement. You may also find a illuminated one works even better. After discussing your requirements, our low vision practitioner will be able to determined the correct power.
Low vision technology
There are some very clever electronic devices, aids and even phone apps now available, that can make life easier. Our low vision practitioner will be able to discuss your requirements and provide advice on the most appropriate devices.
Low vision advice
We also provide holistic advice because there are a great number of small changes you can make around the house, to maximise your potential vision. Such things as the best colour frequency of light bulbs, window dressings and reading locations, can all help.
Do the NHS fund low vision support?
The NHS provide funding towards routine eye tests if you are Sight Impaired (partially sighted) and Severely Sight Impaired (blind). At NHK opticians, our low vision assessments and low vision devices are offered on a private basis only.
