How to Identify Low Vision Patients

Low vision means that a person's sight is significantly reduced and cannot be completely corrected by wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses. Neither surgery nor other medical treatment will restore the person's eyes to normal vision. In some cases, individuals with severe low vision are classified as legally blind. Since low vision can affect the activities of daily life, it is essential to recognize the symptoms of the condition so that a person can be prescribed the appropriate aids required to support independent living.

Instructions

• 1

  Question a patient about how well she sees when wearing corrective lenses. Even when wearing eyeglasses, vision in the person's better eye may not be as good as 20/70. According to the National Eye Institute, this type of vision loss is more common among Americans older than age 65.

• 2

  Inquire whether a patient is able to read the standard size print in newspapers, books and magazines. Also ask whether he can read the mail or see the names and numbers published in telephone directories. If a patient indicates that he can read large-print headlines easier, he may need large-print books and magazines.

• 3

  Ask a patient if she can read the buttons on the telephone or see the numbers on the dials of her stove top range and microwave oven. Certain low vision eye problems affect central vision, causing blurry areas or blind spots. Large-button telephones and raised markings on the control dials of kitchen appliances offer individuals assistance with routine daily activities.

• 4

  Find out if reduced vision makes it difficult for a patient to enjoy recreational activities such as sewing, watching television or playing cards. Sitting closer to the television screen makes the picture look bigger providing more clear detail.

• 5

  Inquire whether a patient finds it difficult to read restaurant menus or the labels on medication bottles. Various types and strengths of magnifiers are available to assist individuals who have low vision with different tasks.

• 6

  Ask a patient if he has particular difficulty seeing in dim light or if he is able to recognize familiar faces from across the distance of an average size room. Vision may be blurred making it difficult to identify objects as well. Individuals with a recent history of accidents and falls may be experiencing low vision.