Understanding Low Vision: Signs, Causes & How to Improve Eye Health

Each month, we feature a post on eye health and eye care written by our very own Bôhten Optometrist Dr. Henry. Providing insight on the dos and don'ts of eye care is our way of educating our community with the hope of improving eye health overall.

 

Good vision is essential for daily activities, but for millions of people worldwide, low vision presents a significant challenge. Unlike common refractive errors that can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, low vision is a condition that cannot be fully improved with standard corrective measures. In this article, we’ll explore the signs, causes, and available solutions for managing low vision effectively.

What is Low Vision?

Low vision refers to a visual impairment that makes it difficult to perform everyday tasks, even with prescription glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. It is not total blindness, as some useful vision remains, but it significantly affects a person’s ability to read, drive, recognize faces, or navigate surroundings.

Signs of Low Vision

Recognizing the early signs of low vision can help individuals seek timely intervention. Some common symptoms include:

• Blurred or hazy vision that cannot be corrected with prescription lenses

• Difficulty recognizing faces even at a close distance

• Trouble reading small print even with reading glasses

• Increased sensitivity to light and glare

• Reduced peripheral (side) vision, leading to difficulty navigating spaces

• Struggles with contrast perception, making it hard to distinguish objects from backgrounds

 

 

Causes of Low Vision

Several eye conditions can lead to low vision. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of low vision in older adults. It affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision, leading to blind spots and difficulty seeing fine details.

2. Glaucoma

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, often due to high eye pressure. It leads to gradual vision loss, particularly in peripheral vision, making everyday tasks challenging.

3. Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetes can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision impairment. This condition often affects both central and peripheral vision.

4. Cataracts

Cataracts cause clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurry vision, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing in low-light conditions. While cataract surgery can restore vision, untreated cataracts can contribute to low vision.

5. Retinitis Pigmentosa

This inherited disorder affects the retina’s ability to respond to light, leading to gradual loss of night vision and peripheral vision.

 

 

Solutions for Managing Low Vision

While low vision cannot always be fully reversed, various strategies and assistive devices can help individuals maximize their remaining vision.

1. Low Vision Aids

• Magnifiers and Telescopic Lenses: Handheld or electronic magnifiers can enhance near vision tasks such as reading and writing.

• Specialty Glasses: High-powered lenses and bioptic glasses can improve distance vision.

• Text-to-Speech Devices: Screen readers and voice-controlled devices help individuals access digital content.

2. Lighting and Contrast Adjustments

• Bright, Adjustable Lighting: Proper lighting reduces glare and enhances visibility.

• High-Contrast Text and Backgrounds: Increasing contrast on screens and printed materials makes reading easier.

3. Orientation and Mobility Training

For those with severe vision loss, mobility training with a specialist can help navigate spaces safely using canes, guide dogs, or GPS-based navigation tools.

4. Regular Eye Exams

Early detection and management of eye conditions through routine eye exams are crucial in slowing vision loss and finding the right adaptive solutions.

Empowering Vision with Bôhten Eyewear

At Bôhten, we believe that everyone deserves eyewear that enhances their quality of life. While standard prescription glasses may not fully correct low vision, choosing high-quality frames and lenses can improve visual comfort and ease eye strain. Whether you need blue-light filtering lenses for screen use or stylish frames for everyday wear, Bôhten offers options designed with your vision in mind.