Low Vision Information

Low Vision is a condition, whether caused by eye disease, genetics, trauma, or other events, where fully corrected vision with conventional glasses , contact lenses or refractive surgery, remains insufficient to do what you want to do. Some consider low vision to be less than 20/40 vision. Others consider it to be less than 20/70 vision. However, The International Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS) believes that the inability to see well enough to do those tasks you want to continue doing, even with your best glasses (contacts or refractive surgery) is sufficient reason to seek the help of a low vision optometrist. In a case of Low Vision, the patient is typically unable to perform basic everyday tasks. This includes:Difficulty with getting around independentlyDrivingUsing the computerWatching televisionRecognizing FacesReadingWritingetc.The burden of such a sudden loss of independence means that Low Vision not only robs the patient of functional capability, it also leaves the patient mentally and emotionally devastated. While commonly associated with seniors over the age of 60, Low Vision also affects children and adults of all ages. Age-Related Macular Degeneration is the most common cause for Low Vision in the US, however patients from all over Tennessee visit for Low Vision care for a wide variety of conditions and diseases. What Is A Low Vision Exam? During your low vision eye exam, Dr. John Pino will determine your level of vision, see if new regular glasses will be an improvement, discuss your wish list and help decide the best solution to help you regain as much day to day functioning as possible. You will discuss with Dr. John Pino what your specific vision goals are, such as reading, writing, recognizing faces, watching TV, or driving. We will determine what areas of your vision are lacking, whether central or peripheral. We will then recommend the various low vision aids or devices that will help you do what you want to do. The low vision exam takes about an hour. Dr. Richard Shuldiner, the founder of the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists explains further:View Our Success Stories & Testimonials. Our patients are often moved to tears when they can get back to doing the things they love. We have shared some of our patient's experiences in order to show the dramatic life-changing nature of low vision care.