Tips to Help Older Americans That Suffer From Low Vision

As we age, it is common for our eyesight to deteriorate, which can lead to low vision. Low vision is a condition in which people have difficulty seeing even with corrective lenses. It can make it challenging to complete everyday tasks, which can impact a person's quality of life. 

This blog post will discuss eight tips to help older Americans with low vision.

Magnifying Devices

Magnifying devices can help people with low vision to see objects better. Many types of magnifying devices are available, including handheld magnifying glasses, magnifying lamps, and electronic magnifiers. 

Handheld magnifying glasses are useful for reading labels and price tags while magnifying lamps are great for tasks that require both hands, such as sewing or crafting. Electronic magnifiers are particularly helpful for people who need to magnify the screen on a computer or mobile device. It's essential to choose the right magnifying device for each task to ensure the best possible results.

Improve Lighting

Good lighting is crucial for people with low vision. It can make it easier to see objects and reduce eye strain. Adding more lamps and using higher-wattage bulbs can help improve lighting in the home. 

It's also essential to avoid glare and use indirect lighting, as direct light can be uncomfortable for people with low vision. Consider investing in light fixtures with adjustable brightness and using natural light whenever possible.

Use Large Print Materials

Large print materials, such as books, newspapers, and calendars, can help people with low vision to read more easily. Large print materials typically have a font size of 14 points or larger, which makes it easier to see letters and words. 

Many libraries and bookstores offer large print books—some publications, such as newspapers, also offer large print versions. Audiobooks and electronic readers can also be helpful alternatives for accessing print materials.

Wear Appropriate Eyewear

Wearing appropriate eyewear is crucial for people with low vision. Prescription glasses and sunglasses can help protect the eyes from harmful UV rays and improve visual clarity. It's essential to have regular eye exams to ensure that glasses or contact lenses are up to date and to identify any changes in vision.

Use Contrasting Colors

Using contrasting colors can help people with low vision to distinguish between different objects and surfaces. High-contrast color combinations, such as black and white, are easier to see than low-contrast combinations, such as blue and green. 

People with low vision can use contrasting colors in clothing, home decor, and other areas of daily life to make it easier to identify and navigate the environment.

Organize Your Living Space

Organizing the living space can help people with low vision to complete daily tasks more easily. Labeling items, keeping a consistent layout, and removing tripping hazards can help reduce accidents and make finding and using objects easier. Adding textured or contrasting markings to objects can also help people with low vision to identify them.

Get Assistive Technology

Assistive technology can help people with low vision to use computers, mobile devices, and other technology more easily. Screen readers, magnifying software, and talking watches are just a few examples of assistive technology available. It's important to research and find the right technology for each individual's needs.

Join a Support Group

Joining a support group can help people with low vision connect with others who have similar experiences. Support groups can provide emotional support, information, and resources to help individuals manage their conditions. It's important to research and find support groups that are specific to low vision.

Visit Premier Eye Care of Eastern Idaho

If you or a loved one is concerned about developing low vision, it's important to seek professional help. Premier Eye Care of Eastern Idaho offers comprehensive eye care services to help individuals manage and treat conditions that can lead to low vision. Our team of experienced eye doctors and staff are dedicated to providing compassionate and personalized care to each patient. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn how we can help you or a loved one prevent low vision.