Step 1: Prescription by a Low Vision Eye Doctor

The process starts with an eye checkup with a low vision eye doctor, who evaluates which parts of your vision are blurry or missing and identifies the areas that are still clear. From there, the doctor finds the best-functioning areas of your retina — known as your “preferred retinal loci,” or PRL. Think of your PRL as the sharpest remaining spots in your eye that you can still use to see clearly.

Once your PRL is identified, the doctor prescribes eccentric viewing training, which is then carried out by an occupational therapist trained in these specific techniques. You can learn more about this evaluation process on our Low Vision Evaluations page.

Step 2: Training with an Occupational Therapist

Next, you’ll work directly with an occupational therapist who specializes in helping patients use their remaining vision more effectively. They’ll guide you through structured exercises designed to build your ability to rely on your PRL rather than the blurry or missing parts of your central vision.

What Happens During Training

Learning to Use Your PRL:

• Identifying the PRL — Your therapist will help pinpoint exactly where your PRL is, often by asking you to look at different objects and notice where they appear clearest.
• Practicing Eye Movements — You’ll practice deliberately moving your eyes to rely on your PRL instead of the affected area. This can feel unfamiliar at first, but it becomes more natural with repetition.

Exercises and Activities:

• Reading Practice — You’ll typically start with large, simple text, learning to look slightly above, below, or to the side of the words to read using your PRL.
• Object Identification — Your therapist may show you objects or pictures to identify, practicing the technique on real-world visuals.
• Daily Activities — You’ll also apply the technique to everyday tasks, such as pouring a glass of water, recognizing faces, or watching TV.

Regular Practice:

• Homework — Just like learning an instrument or a new sport, consistent at-home practice is key to progress.
• Progress Checks — Regular check-ins with your therapist track your progress and allow exercises to be adjusted as your skills improve.

Why Eccentric Viewing Training Helps

• Better Functional Vision — By training your eye and brain to rely on the parts of your vision that work best, everyday tasks become clearer and easier to manage.
• More Independence — Many patients find they can do more on their own, with less reliance on help from family or caregivers.

Eccentric viewing training is often just one part of a broader low vision rehabilitation therapy plan. To understand more about what this specific technique involves, visit our What is Eccentric Viewing Training page, or read about a patient’s own journey on our Personal Experience with Low Vision Rehabilitation page. Learn why ongoing rehabilitation, not a single device, is often the right approach on our Low Vision Rehab is the Standard of Care page, and explore related conditions on our Low Vision Diseases page. If you’re ready to get started, a comprehensive low vision evaluation is the first step, and our New Patient Center explains what to expect.