Optometry – Low Vision Examination

A low vision examination is usually the first step in getting help at the Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation. During this appointment, an optometrist who specializes in low vision checks how well you see. This exam is focused on your ability to use your vision, which may differ from a regular eye exam which just looks at the health of your eyes.

What Happens During a Low Vision Examination?

• Health History: You will be asked about your medical history and any vision problems you are experiencing. They may also ask questions to find out if you need help with other areas of your life, like managing your medications or with mobility.
• Testing Vision Abilities: You will be tested on how well you can see in different situations. Many people who cannot read the standard eye chart may still be able to see letters on special charts for low vision.
• Refraction for Glasses: Even if you have been told that new glasses will not help, the optometrist may check to make sure you have the best prescription. The right glasses can make it easier to use vision aids.
• Contrast Sensitivity: This test checks how well you can see objects that are faint or blend into their background, which can be difficult for people with low vision.
• Visual Field: This test checks how much of the world you can see in different areas of your vision. Many people with eye disease or brain injury may lose vision in certain parts of their visual field.
• Vision Devices: After the evaluation, you may be prescribed vision aids like glasses, magnifiers, telescopes, or electronic devices to help you reach your goals.
• Referrals: Information from your examination helps the optometrist decide if you also need services like occupational therapy or classroom accommodations to help you live better with low vision.

Occupational Therapy – Rehabilitation for Low Vision and Brain Injury

Occupational therapists help people with vision loss, including those with brain injuries, live more safely and independently. Our therapists have special training in low vision rehabilitation. They focus on making everyday activities easier, even with vision challenges. Here’s how they can help:

• Home Safety and Visibility: Therapists suggest ways to make your home safer like improving lighting or organizing spaces to promote participation.
• Using Your Vision Efficiently: Whether you have vision loss from an eye condition or brain injury, therapists teach you how to use the vision you still have in the best way possible.
• Driving and Transportation: Therapists assess whether it is safe to continue driving and offer strategies to improve your driving skills. If driving is no longer an option, they help you explore alternative transportation options.
• Phone and Computer Modifications: Therapists help you adjust your phone and computer settings to make them easier to use, such as enlarging text, using voice commands, or adding special software.
• Using Vision Aids: Therapists train you to use tools like magnifiers, special glasses, or devices that help you see better, tailored to your specific vision needs.
• Non-Visual Techniques: When vision isn’t enough, therapists teach alternative ways to do tasks, like using touch or sound. These techniques are especially helpful for those dealing with vision and cognitive challenges from a brain injury.
• Referrals: Information from your visit helps the occupational therapist decide if you also need services such as community support groups, on-road driving evaluations, long-cane training, or at-home vision services.