A low vision clinic is a specialized eye care facility that provides evaluation, management, and rehabilitation services for people with low vision. Low vision refers to significant visual impairment that cannot be fully corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery. People with low vision may have difficulty performing daily tasks such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces.
Low vision clinics are staffed by eye care professionals who are specially trained to work with people with low vision. These may include optometrists, ophthalmologists, and vision rehabilitation therapists. The goal of a low vision clinic is to help people with low vision maximize their remaining vision and improve their quality of life.
A low vision evaluation at a low vision clinic typically includes a comprehensive eye exam and a functional vision assessment. The eye exam assesses the overall health of the eyes and determines the best possible vision correction for the individual. The functional vision assessment evaluates the person’s ability to perform everyday tasks such as reading, writing, and using a computer.
Based on the results of the evaluation, the low vision team may recommend a range of visual aids and devices to help the individual with low vision. These may include magnifiers, telescopes, and other devices to help improve contrast, lighting, and visual acuity. They may also provide training on how to use these devices effectively and teach techniques for conserving vision and improving visual function.
Overall, low vision clinics play an important role in helping people with low vision maintain independence and improve their quality of life. They offer specialized care and resources that can help individuals with low vision overcome the challenges of visual impairment and achieve their goals.