Low VA

Low vision, or visual impairment, is reduced vision even when using best-possible spectacle or contact lens correction available. It can result from congenital eye conditions, such as retinitis pigmentosa, or acquired eye conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration. The degree of visual impairment can range from mild impairment and almost near-normal vision to total blindness.

The role of a low vision specialist is to maximize the functional level of a patient's vision through optical and non-optical means. A low vision specialist is unable to restore vision; he assists a patient in using the vision that he has. Primarily, this is done through magnification, filters and proper lighting. For distance tasks, like recognizing faces, watching TV or reading signs, a low vision optometrist may suggest telescopes, either hand-held or mounted in the glasses. For near tasks, such as reading books or needle work, he may suggest one of many types of magnifiers.

In order to determine which types of aids would benefit a patient, the low vision specialist performs an assessment to establish the patient's best possible vision, baseline glasses prescription and the patient's goals and expectations. The optometrist selects aids based on the aforementioned factors and provides instruction and direction as to how to use these aids.

At Burlington Eyecare, we are able to provide our patients with such services. We perform assessments using only the best products available by Eschenbach. Their assortment of spectacle and clip-on magnifiers, hand-held magnifiers, stand magnifiers, telescopes, absorptive filters, video magnifiers and many non-optical tools such as lighting and reading stands, help us to meet the needs of our patients with visual impairments.

The Assistive Device Program (ADP) through the Government of Ontario provides support and funding to Ontario residents who have long-term physical disabilities and provides access to personalized assistive devices appropriate for the individual's basic needs. Individuals with long-term low vision qualify for support through ADP, and your optometrist is able to determine whether you have low vision. At Burlington Eyecare, Drs. Germain and Sangster are ADP registered authorizers, so are able to work with their patients to seek funding through ADP.

Please do not hesitate to contact Burlington Eyecare if you have any questions regarding our low vision services, the Assistive Devices Program, or low vision in general.