The term “low vision” means that you have permanently lost some amount of vision to a level that you cannot see what you want or need to see.

Although your vision cannot be made perfect again, in almost every case if you have any vision, we can make it better than it is.

Low vision is a rehabilitation process. We will be working with you to improve your vision over the next few months to the highest level possible.

You can be helped to use your remaining vision in three ways:

1. In most cases special eyeglasses and in some cases high-powered telescopic eyeglasses may be very helpful to see in the distance such as TV and faces or near such as reading or computer, etc. We can demonstrate how this works while you are in the clinic to see if it helps you see what you want to see. While not appropriate for everyone they often improve a person’s vision two to three times better, or more, than it is.
2. You will be taught how to use your remaining vision more efficiently than you do now. There are eye exercises (vision rehabilitation) that may help you do this and, in most cases, these exercises or rehab. are covered by your medical insurance.
3. Utilize alternate devices to perform certain tasks. These include better lighting, high contrast, enlarged print, and auditory or hearing techniques.

PREPARING FOR THE APPOINTMENT

It will be helpful to me if you think about specific problems you are having at home, work, or school because of your failing vision. This may include problems with reading, watching TV, getting around, playing cards, sewing, knitting, woodworking, or other social and recreational activities. Some of these problems may not be helped by the options available, but we will not know if you do not tell us. Think about those things that you would like to see better. Start to think in terms of goals. Also, it will be helpful to write down problem areas or have the person reading this write them down for you along with the goals you hope to attain. I have included a form to start this process. Think of a vision problem, where that problem takes place and what type of lighting is available in that location.

The examination may be lengthy. It will most likely be one to one and a half hours. Make sure you schedule your medications and meals and select a time when you feel you are at your best.

WHAT TO BRING TO THE APPOINTMENT

1. 1. Bring any glasses or magnifying glasses you are presently using.
   2. If you have any special material (forms, books, needlepoint, hobbies, etc.) you want to be able to work with, bring them to the examination well. This is particularly important for materials you use at work, school, or for those hobbies that you might wish to pursue.
   3. Even if you have recently had an eye examination from your optometrist or ophthalmologist your medical insurance may cover most or all the low vision examination services. Therefore, please bring with you any health insurance cards and supplemental health insurance cards you may have with you including your photo I.D.

FINALLY

This will be your initial visit. I will usually need to see you at least one more time to make sure that you are getting the best prescription for your eyes and that the goals you want to accomplish are attained.

It also allows time to try a device to use at home for a month or two prior to prescribing the final one. This added home experience will allow us to design a low vision device that will provide you with the best performance and greatest comfort.

Keep in mind through this experience that the best low vision service occurs when you form a partnership with me, one where we both understand your goals and work together to attain them.

I am here for you and, as always, I want you to walk out of the office seeing better than you did walking in!

Sincerely,

Edward J. Huggett, Jr., O.D., P.A.
Board Certified Doctor of Optometry