Ways to Improve Your Low Vision
There are a number of ways to improve a low vision condition. It may not be possible to completely eliminate the problems that come with low vision, but you can change your habits in order to minimize them. In this article, we’ll talk about ways to improve your low vision and make the most of your day-to-day life, regardless of the severity of your condition.
To get started on making small modifications in your daily routine that will help you see better, start by evaluating where you’re falling short in these areas:
Reading materials
You may have trouble reading newspaper articles or books because they’re too large for you to hold easily. You also might find it difficult to read email messages on your computer screen if they don’t appear big enough, as well as text on websites.
To help reduce stress on your eyes while reading, print out smaller versions of texts – both hard copy or electronic – which you could then take off your desk at work or keep within reach when sitting down to relax. If you often use your computer to shop online, download an app like Readability that allows you to adjust font size on any website to suit your needs.
Getting dressed each morning
When you dress, do so slowly from top to bottom. Start with the arms first; place them over your body, then move down working through one leg after another until reaching your feet. Once you’ve reached that step, stop and remove your socks, shoes and put your eyeglasses away.
Going outside – While walking around outside, try to pick up objects close to you and hold onto them firmly before moving on rather than grabbing whatever’s closest. This way, you won’t risk losing what you’re holding due to unexpected bumps and jostles.
Eating
Avoid eating while driving, especially if you haven’t eaten since breakfast. Try to eat meals away from noise and light as much as possible. Keep food containers in cabinets and refrigerators closed tightly to prevent splashes that may cause eye irritations. Also, make sure no bright lights shine directly into your eyes, either from a TV set or overhead lighting fixtures.
Using a cell phone
Don’t use a cell phone unless absolutely necessary. The blue light emitted by many smartphones and other mobile devices have been linked to decreased sleep patterns among users who are exposed to the light during nighttime hours.
Taking medication for low vision
If you need medications several times per year, find out how to store them safely so that your family members don’t accidentally knock ’em down. Consider taking medications in advance so that you won’t forget to take them when needed. Ask your doctor about keeping some medicines in their original packaging to avoid contamination.
Donning safety glasses or sunglasses
If you wear contact lenses, make sure they stay clean so your eyes don’t become irritated. Wear your prescription eyewear whenever there is prolonged exposure to excessive amounts of sunlight to protect your eyes against potential sun damage.
Making changes in your home environment
Remove clutter from your living area. Keep items such as clothing racks, toys, and puzzles at appropriate heights for adults and children. If you need to walk more than a few steps between furniture, consider installing handrails. Make certain to turn off all floor lamps prior to bedtime.
Adjusting to your new situation
Talk to people who understand the difficulties of low vision and want to learn how they might best help you live successfully with your condition. Many social service agencies specialize in helping seniors with various disabilities, including those associated with aging. Check with your local library for information regarding community resources that can assist you.
For many seniors, a major concern is being able to read print. Readable text isn’t always easy to distinguish, even though it appears quite clear under normal circumstances. Take advantage of magnification devices available at stores like MagnifyMe.com, which allow you to enlarge any printed material so that you can better see and interpret its message. Or visit an optometrist equipped to provide you with magnifying glasses.
Another option to improve your reading experience is to download ebooks, apps, or other electronic versions of books. They’re usually free of charge and typically offer greater flexibility and convenience than hardbound copies.
And remember, your loved ones may have a hard time understanding why you prefer to sit still instead of playing board games, sports, or doing other physically demanding activities. So think about alternatives for getting exercise. You could ask friends or neighbors if they’d mind coming to watch you play tennis or golf, or join in physical therapy sessions. A local senior center can sometimes arrange special classes that teach fitness exercises that require minimal effort.
You should also look into support groups where you can share experiences and advice with others dealing with similar issues. These groups often make great sources of companionship and friendship.
