CAUSES AND MANAGEMENT OF LOW VISION

Today, we will discuss the causes and management of low vision.

WHAT CAUSES LOW VISION?

Varieties of disorders affect the eye and disrupt the visual system. This disruption results in low vision. Some of these disorders include:

Eye injuries
Defects at birth
systemic diseases
Eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and retinitis pigmentosa.

HOW IS LOW VISION MANAGED?

The appropriate management for low vision depends on the individual’s current vision levels, the cause of vision loss, and goals for vision utility. The management of low vision aims to maximize the use of the individual’s remaining vision, allowing them to do their daily activities. Losing vision should not prevent people from carrying on their daily activities. Instead, the individuals learn new ways to do them. Low vision management involves visual rehabilitation. Here, the affected individuals learn new strategies while using devices (low vision aids) that can assist them.

There are many ways to ensure that people with low vision can carry on with their daily activities:

Clinical assessment of vision and prescription of low vision devices/aids like magnifiers, microscopes, telescopes, lighting, large prints, and other assistive devices.
Advice on lighting and contrast enhancement measures, for example, large print materials in good contrast (black text on white background)
The use of non-optical devices like felt-tipped bold pens, kitchen equipment, talking watches, or closed-circuit televisions should be advised.
Orientation and mobility training to help the individuals become independent and confident while moving around, especially in unfamiliar places, by using a cane or other assistive methods.
Engaging in self-management programs to address the mental health challenges of such individuals by incorporating ways to accept and deal with depression and other associated mental health conditions.
It is important to consider the room illumination for low-vision patients. Table lamps with hinged extension arms are encouraged because the light source is adjustable. It ensures adequate illumination of the material.
Patients with low vision should be encouraged to use special software and other advanced technologies.

In our next post, we will discuss the prevention of low vision.

Do you know anyone with low vision? Would you like to learn about how you can prevent it? Visit us today or contact our team of eye care specialists at TREETOP VISION EYE CENTRE (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako, Abuja.

TREVEC CARES!!!