LOW VISION FAQ

 What is Low Vision?

Best corrected vision (using glasses, contact lenses or refractive surgery) which is insufficient to do what you want to do.

What Causes Low Vision?

Vision loss occurs from a variety of causes and conditions. Most are inherited or acquired. Examples include macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, glaucoma, Stargardt Disease, Retinitis Pigmentosa, and albinism. Other causes can be congenital or traumatic.

Low vision doctors are more concerned with the amount of remaining vision, not the cause of the loss itself.

How is a Low Vision Exam Different?

A low vision examination is quite different from a regular eye examination. It is a longer examination usually lasting one hour or more. It is a “vision and function” examination; therefore medical tests such as dilation are usually omitted. The first part of the low vision examination is conversing with the patient to find out how the reduced vision is affecting their life. A “wish list” is created so Dr. Broyles understands what the patient’s goals are. The second part involves extensive vision testing. Careful refraction is performed to find out if a new “regular” eyeglass prescription will help.  Next, the patient is shown magnification using different optical and non-optical devices.  These include telescope glasses, microscope glasses, and prismatic glasses, as well as electronic forms of magnification.  The best illumination and contrast to boost visual performance is determined.  Finally, Dr Broyles prescribes the device or devices most beneficial in helping the patient achieve the goals on their “wish list”.

How is a Low Vision Doctor Different from a Regular Eye Doctor?

Low Vision doctors have been trained in the physics, optics and use of high powered lenses and lens systems. They understand the principles of magnification, field of view, depth and of focus. They also have a working knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of the multitude of low vision glasses, magnifiers, electronic and non-optical devices available. A low vision eye doctor understands how to work with patients and families who can be extremely upset, fearful, and even depressed. It’s a doctor who has the patience and time to explain the eye and vision condition and what the future may hold for patients who may be confused, misinformed and/or have an unrealistic view of their future. A low vision eye doctor has compassion and empathy for what the patient and family is going through as well as the knowledge, resources and experience to help them adjust to the difficult situation. Low Vision doctors know how to analyze a task according to the amount of vision, lighting, working distance and field of view needed for completion. They are expert as designing low vision glasses to meet the needs of the patient.

When Do I Get My Glasses?

It usually takes two to four weeks for specialized glasses to be fabricated. Arrangements can be made to have them sooner in some circumstances. If a person has a special event happening and needs the glasses, the lab can usually expedite the order.

Do Vitamins Help?

THE NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH have demonstrated with two scientific studies (AREDS I & II) that nutritional supplements can slow down, stop or even prevent age related macular degeneration. Numerous other studies, including the Lutein Antioxidant Supplementation trial (LAST), have demonstrated visual improvement in patients taking specific high-dose supplements that include lutein, zeaxanthin and omega 3 fatty acids from fish oil.

VisionVitamins.net

What Is The Free Telephone Interview?

The free telephone interview is a way of limiting the time, expense and disappointment of people who probably cannot be helped by low vision care. Dr. Broyles has determined that asking the right questions on the phone could determine if a patient was qualified for low vision services. “If not, why put the patient through the time and expense only to be extremely disappointed?” says Dr. Broyles. During the free telephone interview, the doctor will ask questions regarding vision, functional abilities, goals, motivation, health, and mobility to determine if an appointment is in the best interests of the caller.

How Do I Know The Glasses Will Work After I Get Them?

During the evaluation, the patient will use actual low vision telescope, microscope and prismatic glasses on the tasks desired. The doctor and the patient will see that they work BEFORE they are ordered. This will be done again when the patient picks up the glasses. We never order glasses until the patient knows that they work.

What If My Vision Changes After I Get The Glasses?

Almost always, prescriptions and magnification levels can be changed without the need for a whole new pair of glasses. We offer a twelve month warranty if the prescription changes at no charge to the patient. It is interesting that changes are actually rarely needed.

How Do I Pay For Them?

We accept cash, personal check and all major credit cards. In addition, we offer no-interest and low interest financing.