The Difference between Low Vision and Routine Eye Exams

Our eyesight is one of the most important senses we have as human beings. It allows us to see the world around us, appreciate the beauty of nature, and connect with people through eye contact. Our eyesight is critical in our daily lives, from reading and driving to cooking and watching television. Without it, our quality of life would be significantly diminished.

An eye exam is a routine procedure that evaluates the health of your eyes and checks your vision. During a regular eye exam, an eye doctor will test your visual acuity, screen for eye diseases, and check for any abnormalities in the eye. However, a regular eye exam may not be sufficient for people with low vision because it may not always detect certain types of vision loss or provide a comprehensive assessment of their vision needs. Few people know how it works, so we will discuss the details in this article.

How Eye Exams Work

Low vision eye exams are specialized exams designed to evaluate the vision of people with visual impairments that cannot be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. These exams are typically performed by low vision specialists with specialized training and equipment to evaluate the unique needs of people with low vision.

During a typical eye exam, an eye doctor will evaluate several aspects of your vision. This may include testing your visual acuity, checking for eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts, and examining the structure of your eye. However, during a low vision exam, the focus is on evaluating specific aspects of your vision that are affected by your visual impairment.

Low vision exams evaluate visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and glare sensitivity. Visual acuity measures how well you can see objects at a distance, while contrast sensitivity measures how well you can distinguish between shades of gray. On the other hand, glare sensitivity measures how well you can see in bright light or glare.

Moreover, a low vision exam may also include an assessment of your visual field, which refers to the area you can see when looking straight ahead. This is important because people with low vision often have a limited visual field, affecting their ability to navigate their environment and perform daily tasks.

Causes of Low Vision

There are several different causes of low vision, including:

• Diabetes Retinopathy: A complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss.
• Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A condition that affects the macula, the part of the eye that allows us to see fine details and can cause a loss of central vision.
• Glaucoma: A group of eye diseases that can cause damage to the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.
• Traumatic Injuries to the Eye or Brain: Injuries to the eye or brain can cause vision loss or visual impairments.

It’s worth noting that these causes are sometimes preventable or treatable with early detection and proper medical care. Regular eye exams and prompt treatment of any eye or brain injuries can help to prevent or minimize vision loss. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, protecting your eyes from UV rays and other potential hazards, and quitting smoking can also help to reduce the risk of developing vision problems.

Managing Low Vision

Unfortunately, low vision is usually permanent and cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. However, several ways exist to manage low vision and maximize your remaining vision.

One option is to use assistive devices, such as magnifiers or telescopes, to help you see more clearly. These devices can help you read, watch television, or perform other daily tasks more easily. Other options include using large-print materials, adjusting lighting to reduce glare, and modifying your home to make it safer and more accessible.

Another option is to work with a low vision specialist who can help you develop a personalized plan for managing your visual impairment. This may include training on assistive devices or techniques for adapting to your visual impairment.

Conclusion

Low vision exams are essential because they are a specialized approach to eye exams. For this reason, anyone experiencing visual impairment should consider scheduling a low vision exam because a specialist can assess your vision and recommend personalized strategies for improving your quality of life. With the right tools and support, low-vision individuals can continue to live independently, stay active, and enjoy their favorite activities.

If you’re looking for an eye exam in Bend, Oregon, Lifetime Vision Care can help! Our eyes are essential senses, so we provide comprehensive treatment options to ensure your eyesight continues to serve its purpose. Call us today or schedule an appointment online!