Can You Improve Your Eyesight With Low Vision Aids

Technology isn't the only tool you can use to help you see better. Other available materials and devices are simple and easy to use. They include:

• Large-print books, newspapers and magazines 
• Check-writing guides
• Large playing cards 
• Enlarged telephone dials 
• Watches with high-contrast faces 
• Machines that talk, for example, timers and clocks 

Can You Improve Your Eyesight With Low Vision Aids

And don't forget one of the most important aids of all - adequate lighting. Even if you don't have a vision-limiting eye disorder, as you age you need more light to comfortably see than you did when you were younger. Here are some lighting tips:

• When you're reading or doing other close-up work, choose a suitable lamp. One of the best is a desk or swing lamp that has an adjustable arm and provides 60 to 70 watts of incandescent light.
• Place your lamp about 4 to 8 inches from your reading material but off to the side a bit to reduce glare.
• Wear a visor or a hat with a wide brims to block annoying overhead light. 
• Wear polarizing or tinted lenses to control glare. 
• Use a piece of dark construction paper as a place holder and to reduce glare when you read. 

Adaptive techniques

In addition to low-vision aids and proper lighting, other measures can help you continue to lead an active life in spite of impaired vision. Some ideas for daily living include:

• Use public transportation or ask family members for help with driving.
• Contact your local senior citizens agency for a list of vans and shuttles, volunteer driving networks or ride-shares.
• Optimize the vision you do have by using the best possible prescription for your glasses and keeping an extra pair handy. 
• Tell friends and family members about your vision problems so that they can assist you with certain tasks. 
• Don't become socially isolated. A common frustration is the inability to recognize people and greet them by name. If this happens to you, try asking acquaintances to say hello and state their name when they approach you so that you can greet them in return. 
• Your eye doctor or low-vision specialist can refer you to government or private agencies for help. 

Ask your doctor about receiving professional help to make your home more convenient for you to live in. Here are some tips for making your home and yard safer:

• Eliminate throw rugs and other tripping hazards.
• Install an intercom at your front door so that visitors can identify themselves.
• Install wireless sensor lights throughout the house so that you'll always have illumination, even if you leave during the day and come back at night. A less expensive option is to put an automatic night light in your entry area. 
• Line all walkways in your yard with plants that differ sharply in color from the color of the walkway. 
• Place low-voltage lighting along paths in your yard. 
• Mark edges of stairs with paint or tape in a contrasting color. 

Can You Improve Your Eyesight With Low Vision Aids

Growing older does not necessarily mean poorer eyesight. Many older adults continue to maintain good vision. Nevertheless, it's a fact that people over the age of 65 are at greater risk of developing low vision. That makes vigilance - and regular eye examinations - even more important. It's also helpful to develop a partnership with your eye doctor or low-vision specialist to make the most of your vision. To find out more, you can check out Can You Improve Your Eyesight With Low Vision Aids.