Low Vision Rehabilitation is a specialized branch of eye care aimed at helping individuals with significant visual impairment—vision that cannot be corrected fully with glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery—to maximize their remaining vision and maintain independence in daily life.

👁️ What is Low Vision?

Low vision typically refers to:

  • Best corrected visual acuity worse than 20/70 in the better eye,
  • Or significant visual field loss (e.g., from glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, or stroke),
  • That interferes with everyday tasks such as reading, recognizing faces, driving, or navigating.

🔍 Common Causes of Low Vision

  • Macular degeneration
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Glaucoma
  • Retinitis pigmentosa
  • Optic nerve atrophy
  • Stroke-related vision loss
  • Congenital disorders (e.g., albinism, aniridia)

🛠️ What Happens in Low Vision Rehabilitation?

Low vision rehab is not a cure but a strategy-based service. It includes:

1. Assessment

  • Comprehensive low vision evaluation by an optometrist or ophthalmologist
  • Tests for visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and functional vision (e.g., how you read or walk around)

2. Training and Therapy

  • Use of low vision aids:
    • Magnifiers (handheld, stand, digital)
    • Telescopic lenses
    • High-contrast reading material
    • Large-print materials
    • Screen reading software
  • Training in visual skills like eccentric viewing (looking slightly away from a blind spot)
  • Home modifications (lighting, labeling systems)

3. Orientation and Mobility Training

  • For patients with severe field loss or blindness, specialists teach:
    • Cane use
    • Navigating safely at home and in public
    • Using public transport

4. Psychological Counseling and Support

  • Vision loss can affect mental health. Rehab often includes:
    • Emotional support
    • Peer support groups
    • Adjustment counseling

🏥 Who Provides Low Vision Rehabilitation?

A multidisciplinary team may be involved:

  • Low vision optometrists
  • Occupational therapists
  • Orientation and mobility specialists
  • Rehabilitation counselors
  • Assistive technology specialists

🎯 Goal of Low Vision Rehabilitation

“To help people make the most of their remaining vision and live independent, fulfilling lives.”