What to expect during your low vision appointment:

• Education:  Every low vision exam starts with an explanation of your eye condition or disease so you can understand why you see the way you do.  Goals are discussed as well as expectations for your current level of vision.

• Best Glasses Prescription: The doctor will ensure that your glasses prescription is the best it can possibly be.  Low vision doctors are comfortable prescribing stronger than typical glasses to provide you with the most magnification.

• Trial of Low Vision Devices:  There are many devices available to try and some may work for you and others may not.  The only way to know is to TRY!  With vision loss, we often find there is NOT one magic tool for patients.Low vision devices may be task specific, meaning one device may work better for spotting fine print, while another may work better for reading.  Some devices will be available to purchase the same day for immediate use.  Others will need to be ordered and additional training or follow ups may be required.  Some of the devices we often try include:  Hand held magnifiers, video magnifiers, stand magnifiers, floor magnifiers, telescopes, prism/microscope readers and more!

• Individualized Care Plan: An individualized care plan will be developed to help care givers best understand how to assist the patient.

• Referral (if indicated):  If a patient could benefit from additional orientation and mobility training, rehabilitation services or they require a higher level of low vision care, we can provide a referral.

• **Note:  A typical low vision examination can last around 1.5 hours.  It is highly recommended that at least one family member or friend be present for the exam to reinforce what was discussed.  Motivation is a requirement to be a successful low vision patient.  Learning any new skill requires practice, patience and persistence.