The Right Stuff

Dear ,

Most low vision patients fend for themselves trying to find devices that will help them function in life.  Unfortunately, I see these patients after they have already wasted thousands of dollars on useless gadgets and they are typically very frustrated in their search for help.  The newly diagnosed patients with VAs of 20/40 or 20/50, often tend to be the most frustrated.

The majority of the time either the patient has searched and trialed various instruments on their own to minimize the impact of their vision loss, or a well meaning relative or friend has offered various instruments.  These accessories range from handheld magnifiers to large print playing cards and is all through trial and error.  The problem is, they will try them for a little while and then ultimately find that they are useless.

In my low vision clinic, I precisely match devices and other compensations to the patient.  Case in point: David has ARMD and receives injections bimonthly.  His acuity is 20/40 OD and 20/50 OS.  His case seems moderate, at worst.  However, he experiences the world with minimal sight. His area of clearest sight is small, and he finds it difficult to “aim” his vision.  When a telescope of 1.7x is placed in front of his eyes, he is not only able to drive safely, but he feels more confident when driving.  

The key here is that while the VA’s are clinically not bad, patients will often describe their vision as “swiss cheese,” which is why they are so frustrated.   Yet, with the right prescription for a low vision device, they are able to function.

Another case:  Millie arrived at my office for a low vision exam and insisted she bring EVERY low vision apparatus she owned.    It took her son two trips to the car to bring all the gadgets into my exam room!  When I asked her which ones she preferred, she answered, “None.  I don’t know how they work and I don’t know how to use them.”  Fortunately, through prescribing, I was able to determine the proper devices to have her fully, visually functioning.

In the end, it takes a team of medical and functional practitioners to restore these patients to functional vision. DIY in this arena leaves the patient wanting.  What we offer our patients is hope that results in results!  We can lift them out of despair!

By working together, we can often make a huge difference in the quality of our mutual patients’ lives.

Cordially,
John P, Jacobi, OD, FCOVD, FIALVS