Low vision and visual rehabilitation
- Topic
When vision cannot be restored, rehabilitation helps people read, move and work with the vision they have. It is never too early to refer.
See it in 3D: Macula · Retina · Optic nerve
What it is
Low vision is reduced vision that glasses, contact lenses, drugs or surgery cannot correct, enough to limit daily life. Rehabilitation does not cure it but makes the most of the remaining vision: magnifiers and telescopes, electronic and phone tools, screen readers, better lighting and contrast, and training in orientation and mobility. In children, it includes special education programmes.
Key facts
- Common causes in adults: macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy; in children: congenital cataract, retinopathy of prematurity, genetic retinal and optic nerve disease.
- Aids: hand and stand magnifiers, spectacle magnifiers, telescopes, video magnifiers, phone apps, screen readers.
- Environment: good lighting, high-contrast markings, large print.
- Rehabilitation includes orientation and mobility, daily living skills and emotional support.
In clinical practice
- Loss of vision raises the risk of falls, depression and social isolation.
- People with macular disease may see formed images that are not there (Charles Bonnet syndrome); reassurance helps.
- Colombian guideline: children with low vision should be rehabilitated and schooled with programmes for their condition.
Next step / Initial management
- Best-corrected vision that limits reading, mobility or work: refer to a low vision service, without waiting for the vision to fall further.
- Children with low vision: rehabilitation and educational support from diagnosis.
- Screen for depression and fall risk in older adults with visual loss.
- Provide information about disability certification and support services.
Test yourself
Think of the answer, then tap the question to see it.
What is low vision?
Reduced vision that cannot be corrected by glasses, drugs or surgery and that limits daily activities.
What is Charles Bonnet syndrome?
Formed visual hallucinations in people with visual loss, typically macular disease, with preserved insight.
When should a patient be referred for low vision rehabilitation?
As soon as vision limits reading, mobility or work, without waiting for further loss.
Connections
See it in 3D3
The structures of Durgical's 3D anatomy where it is found.
Educational content; not a clinical guideline and no substitute for assessment by a health professional. For sudden visual loss, severe eye pain, a chemical burn or an eye injury, go to an emergency department at once.
Sources: Low Vision Aids (StatPearls Publishing (NCBI Bookshelf), 2023); World report on vision (World Health Organization, 2019).
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Representative model, for educational purposes only.