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You are reading this text and have probably taken for granted the ease with which you are reading. For some, those with 'low vision,' this is a difficult task, even after they've enlarged the font on their computer screen.
Low Vision is defined as best corrected vision (with conventional glasses, contact lenses, LASIK, or cataract surgery), which is reduced to the point of interfering with the tasks you want to do. Vision may be reduced from medical, congenital, or traumatic causes. Someone with Low Vision may be struggling to read this article, write, drive or watch television.
Symptoms Most eye disease symptoms are painless and diseases may be advanced prior to any noticeable changes.
Early Detection Annual eye exams are necessary, partly due to the speed at which changes occur in seniors. In some conditions, it may be too late to prevent blindness if not seen annually. There are no cures for diseases such as
Age-Related Macular Degeneration, meaning the damaged cells will not regenerate.
Prevention
Your lifestyle today can help: avoid smoking, exercise regularly, maintain normal blood pressure and cholesterol levels, eat a healthy diet, rich in green leafy vegetables and fish, limit exposure to UV and 'blue light' rays - those from digital devices - as the damage from these waves are cumulative throughout your life. Use an 'amsler grid' to monitor vision between exams and report any changes immediately.
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