Blog vol 4.34. An update on bioptic telescopes and driving
I have done several blogs on Bioptics and, considering February is low vision month (who knew?), it is time for an update.
As you know, the Ontario government, in 2020, made it possible for visually impaired people to drive with bioptics. The past three and a half years have been an interesting adventure. We now have fit over forty people with bioptic telescopes for the purpose of driving, and are glad to say that the process of getting licensed is becoming more streamlined.
If you are a person who had a driver’s license and developed a visual impairment that resulted in suspension of your license, we have good news. The Ministry of Transport is allowing these individuals to get their vision updated with bioptics, and after three months of working with the device, to be given back their license.
The record shows, and our experience tells us, that prior driving experience is a huge help in driving with bioptics.
We have also worked with people who were born with a visual impairment and never dreamed of driving a vehicle. This is so exciting and crazy!
We fit the bioptic telescope and train them, and then they do driver training, and finally end up with a driver’s license. This is an arduous process. To make things more difficult, not everyone is educated about bioptics so some prejudice needs to be overcome, but these individuals are very motivated and are high functioning when it comes to other areas of life and embracing new technologies. Getting a driver’s license is a huge achievement because they have to go through the bioptic training, then learn how to drive for the first time. We are so impressed by the perseverance and determination of these new drivers. Congratulations.
Unfortunately, not everyone can drive. Do remember that there are limitations on the power of the bioptic telescope, on the requirements for functional visual field (which is critical, especially for driving), and on the amount of visual acuity the patient is starting with. Please call our office to at least start a conversation and do remember that we provide low-vision aids for all sorts of tasks and for everyday life.
The last thing to note is that the Ministry of Transport has created a class G license that is designated for bioptic drivers — now there is an elite group :) When you have this designation, you need to be checked annually to ensure that your vision has not changed and that the device is working and fitting well.
This is challenging work, but so rewarding. AND, even if you cannot drive, there may be devices, technologies, or other options that can help you. DO enquire. (please)
“My Bioptics doth Magnify the Road”, corny but true.
The good doctor
