Can I have low vision and not be legally blind?
Yes.

If I have low vision, does that mean I can not drive my car?
It depends. Your eye doctor can tell you.

What does a low vision specialist do?

• Takes a careful and methodical history of your visual difficulties with emphasis on your current problems.
• Checks and records your current prescriptions.
• Performs a refraction of your eyes to determine your best prescription.
• Determines which low vision devices can help you to function better for distance and reading.

Low vision devices which might be prescribed:

• Special purpose bifocals
  For computer use, hobbies or your occupation.
• Microscopes
  High power reading glasses, for use with one or both eyes, may enable you to read normal size print more easily.
• Telescopes
  High power devices for looking at faces across a room or street, reading signs or computer screens or watching television.  They can be used with one or both eyes. They can be either hand held or in glasses.
• Hand magnifiers
  Are helpful for reading price tags, menus, thermostats, stove dials, etc.
• Sunglasses / filters
  Many people with vision disorders are light sensitive. Special filters may enhance their comfort and function.
• Electronic magnifiers
  For patients who cannot read satisfactorily with glasses, certain devices can play print back on a screen at a size and speed you choose.

Most patients with congenital (from birth) or acquired vision loss can be helped with low vision aids. 

For more information contact Eye Health Vision Centers for an appointment with our our low vision specialist,
Dr. Rodney Immerman.