What Is Low Vision Rehabilitation Therapy?
Low vision rehabilitation therapy is a structured visual retraining process that helps patients with low vision maximize the sight they have left, rather than relying on a single device alone.
Request an AppointmentAn Ongoing Process, Not Just a Device
Another way patients with low vision can maximize their remaining sight is through rehabilitation. Low vision rehabilitation therapy has been proven to improve visual acuity by an average of 40 to 70%, and this therapy is available through The Low Vision Works program.
The Low Vision Works program is one of the only low vision processes consistently able to increase visual functional acuity as well as reading speed and accuracy. Through visual retraining based on the principles of vision retraining, the eye and brain can be trained to “behave differently,” learning to use other, healthier parts of the retina to see more clearly than they can using a damaged macula. This is known as eccentric viewing training.
To learn more about The Low Vision Works rehabilitation program directly, you can visit their website at lowvisionworks.com.
What This Looks Like in Practice
If you’d like a full, step-by-step breakdown of what this training actually involves, from your initial low vision prescription through ongoing at-home practice, visit our Guide to Eccentric Viewing Training. You can also read a firsthand account on our Personal Experience with Low Vision Rehabilitation page.
Why This Approach Matters
Many eye care organizations now consider ongoing rehabilitation, rather than a single prescribed device, the true standard of care for patients with significant vision loss. Rehabilitation therapy is often paired with specialized low vision glasses, such as bioptic glasses or Clear Image Microscopic Glasses, to help you get the most out of your remaining vision. Learn more about the eye diseases that most often lead to this kind of therapy, or explore our full range of low vision treatments. Ready to take the first step? A comprehensive low vision evaluation is where every plan begins, and our New Patient Center covers what to expect at your first visit.
What Is Low Vision Rehabilitation Therapy: Frequently Asked Questions
What is low vision rehabilitation therapy?
It’s a structured, ongoing visual retraining process that helps patients with low vision use their remaining sight more effectively, often improving visual acuity by 40 to 70%.
What is The Low Vision Works program?
The Low Vision Works program is a specialized visual retraining process focused on improving functional visual acuity, reading speed, and reading accuracy.
What is eccentric viewing training?
Eccentric viewing training is a core technique in low vision rehabilitation that teaches the eye and brain to rely on healthier parts of the retina instead of a damaged macula.
How is rehabilitation different from getting new glasses?
Rehabilitation is an ongoing training process, while glasses are a device. Many patients see the best results when combining both as part of a complete treatment plan.
Who is a good candidate for low vision rehabilitation therapy?
Patients with significant vision loss from conditions like macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy are often good candidates, especially after a comprehensive low vision evaluation.
How do I get started?
The first step is scheduling a low vision evaluation, after which we’ll recommend a personalized rehabilitation plan based on your specific results.
