Children with low vision have access to a wide selection of optical and non optical devices available for them at stationers’, furniture shops, and optical stores.

Non-optical devices are used to alter environmental perception. Examples include reading stands, bold line writing guides and high contrast pens. Such devices can help with homework, school work and leisure time pursuits alike.

Magnifiers and telescopes

Low vision devices can be invaluable tools in improving visual functioning and making life more manageable for those living with visual impairment. A variety of optical and non-optical devices is widely available through retail outlets; however, only an experienced low vision specialist can recommend the appropriate choices that meet a child’s individual needs.

Optic magnifying devices work by increasing the size of an object’s image on the retina via lenses or prisms, increasing its image relative to what can be seen through lenses and prisms. They can be held in your hand, rest on a stand, spectacle mounted or held up against glasses; either monocular (one lens) or binocular (two lenses) magnification devices with various power magnification levels are available with various magnification powers and styles available – traditionally denoted with an “x” value which indicates its relative increase compared to what was visible before, while some magnification devices offer better field of view figures which give what amount can be seen at working distances instead.

Telescopes come in various powers and configurations that make them suitable for hand holding, spectacle mount or head band attachment. Some telescopes include built in illumination while others can be adjusted for focus allowing near, intermediate or distance tasks to be accomplished with ease. Telescopes may be especially beneficial to children suffering from low vision due to macular degeneration where their field of vision has diminished while still possessing good acuity.

Video magnifiers (also referred to as closed circuit televisions or CCTVs) are electronic devices which enlarge objects and print on a monitor, such as video magnifiers. They allow both hands to remain free for reading tasks over an extended period. Commonly used by children with moderate to severe visual loss and may prove especially beneficial for some with learning difficulties.

Holding lenses up in front of one’s eye is crucial for children with limited vision, making a telescope or hand-held magnifier invaluable tools. Children must receive training on how to effectively utilize either device; this training may come from clinical low vision specialists as part of low vision services or alternatively from teachers of students with visual impairments or orientation and mobility instructors who know all available optic devices and how best to teach their use.

Tables with adjustable tilt

An adjustable tilt table can help people with low vision work more easily and increase their independence. Such tables offer a stable, level surface for reading or writing while tilt allows users to enlarge print. They are also useful for children with limited mobility who rely on wheelchairs or other assistive devices; such tables can be purchased or constructed at home and made out of various materials; some come equipped with shelves designed for holding books or items, and some feature 1/2-inch lips to keep objects secure when tilting the table.

Many children with visual impairments struggle with reading. Their poor vision may be caused by cataracts, diabetes, glaucoma or macular degeneration and can lead to reduced central reading vision, decreased side (peripheral) vision and contrast sensitivity/illuminance issues that make reading challenging; some children even give up reading altogether! But with improved ambient lighting, an adjustable table height and standalone magnifiers available as solutions they may find it easier.

Optic and non optical devices designed specifically to assist those with visual impairments perform daily tasks more easily. These devices enable access to information normally printed in small print – such as directions on a map or labels on containers – providing access to directions or labels in large font. Furthermore, such devices can help readers decipher street signs or read chalkboards more quickly and accurately.

Magnifiers and telescopes are two of the most frequently used optical devices for low vision. Magnifiers increase object sizes on retina, while telescopes narrow fields of view. Both products come in various shapes and sizes, including handheld, hanging, illuminated handheld and stand magnifiers as well as full aperture or bifocal models with base prisms designed specifically to support binocular viewing.

Teachers of students with visual impairments and orientation and mobility instructors should be knowledgeable of the available devices, their uses and how best to teach children how to use them. In addition, teachers should observe and respond to psychosocial reactions caused by using these devices; when appropriate they can refer their pupils for evaluation by low vision specialists who will assess whether a specific device will fit them best.

Table lamps with a ‘gooseneck’

Table lamps with goosenecks allow individuals to enlarge objects and read text without using computers or smartphones, with many available shapes, sizes and styles to meet individual visual needs. It is best to place this device near natural sunlight; otherwise use brighter lightbub such as halogen or full spectrum bulbs recommended for desk lamps. When purchasing table lamps make sure the shade can be adjusted horizontally and vertically as this will enable users to focus on what they’re reading more easily – also ensure it comes equipped with a toggle switch at its base for easy use!

Non optical devices are used to support independent living by altering environmental perception by increasing illumination, contrast, and spatial relationships. Examples of such adaptations are larger print books, check writing guides, bold-lined paper and larger phone dials (including talking appliances such as timers or clocks). There are also special place mats which contrast in color with plates or stand-alone scanners which enlarge printed material for reading.

Optic low vision devices are complex high-tech aids prescribed by specialists based on functional vision assessments and optical prescription. They may be handheld, resting on a base or stand, mounted into eyeglasses, hand-held magnifiers or television monitor size monitors – some even include bioptic or telemicroscopic systems!

These devices tend to be easy to use and require little training; however, prior to purchase a comprehensive low vision evaluation must take place. A trained teacher of students with visual impairments or orientation and mobility (O&M) instructor can offer personalized instructions regarding their use; schools offering education services may offer such evaluations and follow up.

Absorptive filters

At any age, vision naturally begins to decline with age; in many instances this decline can be restored through medication or surgery. Unfortunately, however, sometimes visual function decline is irreparable and people must adjust with reduced visual abilities for everyday tasks – an option augmented by various optical and non-optical devices.

Magnifiers and telescopes are among the most popular optical low vision devices, designed to maximize remaining vision by increasing projected image sizes on retina. These can come in various forms such as hand-held magnifiers, hanging magnifiers, illuminated stand magnifiers or spectacle magnifiers that can be worn on either eye.

Absorbtive filters are non-optical devices designed to enhance visual functioning. Used to decrease glare and contrast levels while creating more comfortable viewing conditions. Available in an array of tint colors and sizes for use on sunglasses or spectacle frames.

Many people with impaired vision use non-optical devices to help them complete daily tasks. For instance, placing objects near windows to provide extra lighting when reading or writing; others might utilize felt-tipped pens (which produce thicker lines that are easier to read); still others wear hats and caps to minimize glare when outdoors; these and many other options can often be found at drugstores and discount stores.

Electronic devices also serve as non-optical low vision aids. Closed circuit television (CCTV) systems, for instance, may offer increased illumination and contrast for various visual impairments; these systems can be installed in homes but usually cannot be carried around easily.

While non-optical low vision aids may not be as effective, they still allow children to manage daily functions independently. To be most beneficial for use, these devices should be prescribed by an ophthalmologist or optometrist familiar with their use and offering appropriate advice; in certain instances educational agencies or community programs may even assist with purchasing these devices – these devices are essential in maximising a child’s remaining vision and helping them pursue educational or vocational goals more fully.