Low Vision Hobbyist

QUESTION:
I love painting and playing the piano, but the vision I have lost due to my macular degeneration and diabetic retinal disease is getting in my way.  In order to see detail, I have to hold things a few inches from my face or hold a hand magnifier.  Obviously, this doesn’t work when painting or playing piano.  I need to be able to see my easel and the music on my stand as well as have my hands free. They cannot be occupied with magnifiers.  Is there anything you can offer to help me?

Answer:  
You are certainly not the only person who has run into this problem.  I just saw a patient who loves scrapbooking but had given it up due to the same obstacles you are encountering.  I am happy to say she is back at her hobby with renewed gusto!

Her answer may become yours.  I have found that a special telescopic device that is engineered into a pair of glasses works the best.  The telescope can be set so you can see at various distances with magnification.  In addition, your hands are free to do whatever you wish.

When you come for your exam, I request you bring several items which helps in ensuring we get you the right prescription.  Please bring your sheet music along with your canvas and a brush.  I will provide the lighting lamp that you will eventually take home.  I find that many people try to improve their lighting but are not successful getting it precisely correct.  Lighting is second in importance only to magnification when working with a low vision (partially sighted) patient.  

So, you do not have to experience defeat in regard to your hobbies.  Your remaining sight can be maximized so that you can stay cognitively and physically active!