Low vision is a visual condition affecting millions of people worldwide, characterised by a significant loss of vision that cannot be fully corrected with conventional glasses and contact lenses, medication or conventional surgery. Although sufferers maintain some functional vision, their quality of life and autonomy are affected. Throughout this article we will look at some of the aids that exist today.

Main causes of low vision

There are several pathologies that lead to low vision, especially the following:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Advanced glaucoma
• Non-operated cataracts

These diseases generate a progressive or sudden loss of vision which, if not properly addressed, severely limits the daily life of those affected.

Frequent symptoms in people with low vision

Symptoms may vary depending on the disease causing the low vision, although there are some common symptoms that occur regularly:

Persistent blurred vision

This symptom is characterised by constant difficulty in focusing clearly in everyday tasks that we carry out on a day-to-day basis such as cooking, picking up objects, cleaning, recognising shapes that we normally see, etc.

Excessive glare and difficulty adapting to changes in light

Many people affected report intense discomfort in bright lights, or difficulty adapting to changes in light, causing significant discomfort in everyday environments. In particular, when entering a low-light environment, it takes them a long time to see. They may also have trouble distinguishing items correctly in these dark environments, such as walking at night.

Visual field limitation

Reduced visual field can make it difficult to move around safely, increasing the risk of falls and accidents in the home or workplace.

Options for low vision

Although there is no absolute cure for low vision, there are several treatments that allow patients to make the most of their remaining vision, considerably improving their quality of life.

Advanced optical aids for low vision

Today, the most modern and effective optical aids include:

• Portable electronic devices that allow text and images to be magnified with different levels of contrast and magnification.
• Digital systems with integrated cameras that project magnified images onto screens, facilitating reading and other daily activities.
• Specialised mobile applications that use artificial intelligence technology to identify objects, read text aloud and assist with everyday tasks.

The choice of these tools will depend on the specific needs of the patient, following a thorough assessment of their vision and daily activities.

Protective filter aids

Protective filters are an essential element in the management of low vision, especially to reduce the effects of glare and improve contrast. Some of the most commonly used are:

• Yellow or amber filters:: ideal for increasing contrast in low light conditions.
• Grey or brown filters:: recommended to reduce light intensity while maintaining natural colour perception.

Each patient should test and select the filter that best suits their visual situation and personal comfort.

Specific intraocular lens aids

Eyemax mono

The EyeMax mono lens serves to project images onto a larger central area of the eye, allowing the patient to see more clearly around the area affected by the disease. More information can be found here.

SML (Scharioth Macula Lens)

This is an intraocular lens with a central magnification of +10 dioptres that improves near vision. It allows you to read and see small details without affecting distance vision, eliminating the need for external magnifiers for daily reading.

How to choose individualised low vision aids?

The prescription of individualised aids is a detailed process that involves a thorough assessment by low vision specialists:

Personalised assessment of visual needs

The first step is to clearly identify the patient's daily activities, such as reading, watching television or walking outdoors.

Selection and testing of optical aids

Once needs are identified, different aids are tested to determine which provides the most comfort and best visual performance in practical situations.

Specialised training in the use of aids

To maximise effectiveness, supervised training is crucial to allow the patient to become fully familiar with the new tools and to optimise their daily use.

Continuous follow-up in the treatment of low vision

Treatment does not end with the delivery of the visual aids. Regular reviews are essential to adapt the solutions according to the patient's visual evolution and any changes in their needs.

Continuous adjustments of visual aids

Vision can change over time, and tools must be adapted accordingly, ensuring a constant improvement in the patient's quality of life.

Comprehensive vision rehabilitation

In addition to technical adjustments, psychological support and comprehensive vision rehabilitation play a key role, helping the patient to adapt emotionally to changes in their lifestyle.

It is important not to ignore low vision

Low vision presents significant challenges, but thanks to comprehensive treatment that includes personalised optical aids, specific protective filters and continuous rehabilitation, it is possible to maintain an active and independent life. Early detection, personalised treatment and appropriate follow-up by specialised professionals are the key to significantly improving the quality of life of people living with this visual condition.