Children usually adapt more readily and more successfully than adults to low vision devices.2

Children with low vision can benefit greatly from using devices like handheld magnifiers or reading telescopes, but more advanced tele-microscopic lenses may provide even greater benefits.

Magnifiers

Reading can be one of the most difficult tasks for those living with low vision, such as those living with AMD and other visual impairments. Even reading small text may become challenging – reading aids may make this task simpler and more rewarding.

Magnifiers are widely utilized low vision devices for reading. Available in various shapes, sizes, powers, and focal lengths – some styles can even be handheld for easy spot reading while others feature height adjustable stands to enable continuous use – low vision specialists are often the best source of advice when choosing which magnifier power best meets their reading materials of interest.

Handheld electronic magnifiers are lightweight and portable, making them the ideal everyday solution. Many models feature LCD high definition screens which display images up to 12x magnification power magnification. Furthermore, many offer options such as image capture or freezing; reading magnification adjustments; brightness, contrast or color settings and brightness/contrast/color settings for customization of images captured or frozen on them.

Stand magnifiers resemble handheld electronic magnifiers in that the lens is held at an identical distance from reading material – eliminating the need to hold it steady while reading. They may be more suitable than handheld magnifiers for people with tremors or poor hand/eye coordination.

Desktop video magnifiers (also referred to as CCTVs) offer some of the highest levels of magnification available for desk or stationary use, typically featuring features such as computer connectivity, screen split capabilities and multiple viewing modes.

Smart phone apps offer the capability of magnifying text and images, and can be downloaded onto smartphones or tablets that support them. In addition, these standalone devices may attach directly to eyeglasses for hands free viewing of text on a phone or tablet screen. Furthermore, devices such as OrCam MyEye recognize printed text, menus, product labels, digital screens and signs while instantly speaking them aloud with human-sounding voices.

Many of the adaptive technologies listed below can also serve as magnifiers to magnify computer screens or visual content such as images and photos, which is particularly helpful for visually impaired people who must keep pace with work-related activities such as using spreadsheets or creating and editing documents.

Some adaptive technologies enable those with low vision to use computers just like they did prior to losing their vision, such as JAWS, Fusion and OpenBook scanning and reading systems. Furthermore, mobile, handheld and stand magnifiers connected via smartphone or computer that convert visual information into speech give a sense of independence and hopefulness about a world still full of opportunities.

Tele-microscopic lenses

Tele-microscopic lenses offer high magnification power for close up viewing, unlike magnifying lenses for eyeglasses which require shorter viewing distances. Tele-microscopic lenses enable people to read, write and perform other tasks at normal arm’s length – particularly useful for those suffering macular degeneration and macular degeneration itself. This type of low vision device is sometimes called reading telescope or spectacle-mounted loupes.

Low vision aids not only improve central vision but can also aid with peripheral or side vision loss. Their increased field of view, clarity and contrast allow people to safely drive cars or navigate their homes as well as use computer monitors or TV screens safely.

These devices can help those suffering from vision loss enjoy various activities including reading, hobbies and sports. Lightweight, portable and easy to use, some are powered by electricity while others use rechargeable batteries – this type of low vision aid is particularly helpful for people suffering from age-related macular degeneration, cataracts or any condition which results in visual impairments.

This device combines microscopic view lenses with a head apparatus designed to secure them before one’s eyes, making them especially helpful for those suffering macular degeneration as it offers a safer and more convenient alternative to handheld magnifying glasses. These low vision assistive devices come in various magnification strengths as well as cosmetically pleasing models that are easy to use.

These low vision devices are intended to assist those with impaired central and peripheral vision with activities such as cooking, cleaning, gardening, using the computer and watching television. Their compact form makes them convenient for busy lifestyles with limited storage space – they even come equipped with batteries for maximum portability!

Low vision rehabilitation specialists can advise their patients on which optical devices would best meet their particular circumstances. A detailed history is taken and an exacting refraction performed, to ascertain their ideal visual acuity. Additional tests may also be administered in order to assess individual components of the visual system which may differ according to each person.

As macular degeneration affects reading, there are various measures you can take to combat its effects, such as selecting books with larger fonts and wider spacing between lines; using an e-reader with customizable display settings that include larger fonts and higher resolution; having appropriate lighting when reading; taking breaks when necessary and taking care when taking breaks can all help relieve eye strain and improve comfort levels when reading.