Optic devices provide people with low vision with assistance. These include hand magnifiers, stand magnifiers, video magnifiers, handheld magnifiers and video magnifiers that can be mounted to tables or bases or integrated directly into eyeglass frames.

Reading telescopes are another type of low vision device. Similar to eyeglasses, reading telescopes provide high magnification for near objects. A low vision specialist can teach how to use this type of low vision device effectively.

Magnifiers

Magnifiers are used in low vision reading machines to help compensate for central vision loss. When this occurs in the center of the retina (macula), magnifying text will enable healthy portions of retinal tissue to create more visible visual images and allow someone to read or perform other activities they otherwise would be unable to. There is an assortment of shapes, sizes, powers and types available – optical as well as electronic options available.

Optical magnifiers are typically small and portable handheld units designed to magnify reading material or objects when necessary. Ranging in power from 1.5X-8X, these magnifiers can help with daily tasks like reading bank statements, pill bottles, recipes or mail. Magnifiers can also be useful at home for viewing TV guides, washing machine or dishwasher controls and food packaging or instructions in the kitchen. Handheld magnifiers may be difficult to hold for prolonged periods and may not function well if the user suffers from trembling hands; for this reason they’re often used with hands-free magnifiers that attaches directly to glasses or stands, leaving both hands free for other tasks.

Electronic magnifiers, commonly referred to as closed circuit television magnifiers or CCTVs, use video cameras to digitally enlarge images on a monitor screen. There are a range of screen sizes and magnification strengths available; certain models even connect directly to computers so users can adjust contrast and other settings remotely.

Some low vision reading machines include lights that can help improve one’s ability to see, decrease eyestrain and ease eyestrain. These lights can be especially beneficial if the individual has difficulty seeing in dim light environments. Therefore, having adequate lighting in your home when using these devices and increasing ambient light whenever possible are both key considerations for optimal reading experience. In some instances, placing a white sheet over the page helps reflect light onto it and brighten text more effectively – some readers even find this helps them read faster!

Telescopic devices

Reading can be one of the most challenging activities for those living with low vision, requiring intense concentration and constant eye movement in order to read print. Because of these obstacles, many low vision patients find it impossible or frustrating to enjoy reading – however there are numerous devices designed specifically for visually impaired readers that can make this activity simpler and enjoyable.

Optic low vision devices use one or more lenses to magnify an object on the retina of one or both eyes, making it visible through magnification. They may be handheld, hanging, or mounted on height-adjustable stands; some models even feature illuminated print. Handheld magnifiers are the most frequently purchased low vision device at less than $100 and easily portable; desktop or CCTV (closed circuit television) magnifiers may provide higher magnification levels as well as multiple viewing modes but they often cost more.

Binocular Telescopic Lenses provide an effective solution for low vision reading devices. Easy to operate and quickly satisfying for patients, they provide immediate gratification by watching television seated comfortably with this device. However, due to increased magnification risking falls.

Implantable telescopic devices offer hope to patients suffering from macular degeneration or other conditions causing decreased central vision. Specifically designed to replace damaged retina centers and enhance vision for distance, near, and intermediate distances; this implant must be placed on the good eye in order for it to work as otherwise your brain will suppress images from that eye in favor of using only what’s coming through on that side.

Non-optical low vision devices can help those living with low vision in many everyday activities, including cooking, setting thermostats and stove dials, measuring, applying makeup, recognizing paper money and playing cards. Many times these items are inexpensive and available from online catalogs or local stores for the blind.

Lights

Individuals living with low vision may require non-optical devices for daily activities. These may include simple aids that assist with pictorial information interaction and reading by enlarging print or using electronic text-to-speech technology. You may be able to locate such products at local retailers; your low vision specialist can recommend vendors.

Lighting conditions in any given space are crucial to those with low vision, and it is recommended that homes or offices with this condition should strive for natural sunlight whenever possible. When using artificial lights, consider halogen task lights or full spectrum bulbs which are gentler on your eyes than harsh fluorescents; there are also various lamps designed with extra brightness that use swivel reflector shades, gooseneck or swing arm designs that direct light directly where it’s needed – you could even try buying reading lamps that provide additional illumination!

Magnifiers are an easy and practical way to boost vision, with various hand-held and stand magnifiers available for daily tasks. People with low vision may also benefit from portable video magnifiers which combine a camera and monitor screen display of text, objects or books with an enlarged image displayed on an easily portable monitor screen display device – these portable video magnifiers are quick and simple solutions!

Functional vision involves being able to complete life tasks like eating, grooming, cooking and getting around. Students with low vision often require visual magnification tools in order to read pictorial material; other students might require optical or electronic magnification devices for specific tasks like shopping, cooking or taking public transit – these devices will be determined through a clinical evaluation process.

Students with low vision often are surprised to discover how easy it is to use electronic devices for their daily activities. There are even software programs available which will scan printed documents and read aloud any text found within, which may prove especially helpful when the shape and size of letters become illegible to the student.

Electronics

Electronic devices have made it possible for visually impaired people to use computers and other digital technology as effectively as sighted people do. These adaptive devices include various high-tech magnifying and reading aids; some display text on screen in large print, while others provide text-to-speech capabilities and magnify screens at the touch of a button. Some also help people use computers, tablets and smartphones by converting files to more accessible formats or offering other helpful accessibility settings.

Devices designed to increase contrast and brightness can be especially helpful for people with low vision as they make it easier for them to see in dimly lit environments. Such devices include lighted magnifiers with built-in light sources and computer software programs featuring high contrast themes. Another helpful device is a line tracker, which displays one to five lines of text at the same time so the reader can follow along as they read.

Non-optical adaptive technologies, including digital readers, allow people to engage with mainstream technology without looking directly at a screen. These devices magnify screen content and read aloud any important information out loud as well as providing navigation functions and access to the Internet allowing users to remain connected and continue doing their favorite activities.

Phone and tablet manufacturers frequently include accessibility features in their devices, so most have magnification features and adaptive technologies built-in. If a device doesn’t already include these options, specialized software and apps exist that enable people with low vision access their favorite devices.

Head-mounted systems designed to assist people with low vision are also available, enabling them to use the camera in their eyeglasses or headscarf as a lens for visual magnification. These adaptive devices can zoom in on objects while offering up to 70 degrees field of view and adjusting contrast and brightness levels of scenes for easier text reading. To learn more about these adaptive devices, contact an eye care provider experienced in low vision care.