Optical Aids For Macular Degeneration

Optical Aids and Lighting

Low-vision optical aids often improve vision for people with macular degeneration. Many different types of magnifying devices are available. Hand held stand magnifiers, telescopes and closed circuit television for viewing objects are some of the available resources. Optical aids are either prescribed by the ophthalmologist or by referral to a low-vision specialist or centre. Bright illumination properly directed for reading and close work is often beneficial. Special lamps can also be helpful. Books, newspapers and other items available in large print offer further help.

A patient with macular degeneration can be helped.

Fortunately, visual aids are available to assist many patients in leading a comfortable and relatively normal life. With these devices and proper motivation, people with visual loss can often read, do modified close-up work, and continue to take care of them. The optical aids available are:

1. Magnifying hand-held lenses or spectacles, and
2. Special devices of microscopic and telescopic spectacles wherein a microscope or a telescope is condensed to the size of spectacle glass.

If you are fifty years, or your family has history of retinal problems, you should have your eyes checked periodically for signs of eye problems like macular degeneration. Early detection and subsequent treatment, if indicated, may help prevent additional visual loss.