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Low Vision Assessment and Rehabilitation

Initial Low Vision Assessment

What is Vision Rehabilitation?

Visual rehabilitation is to sight as physical therapy is to the loss of a leg or damage caused by stroke. A part of the body no longer functions as efficiently as before, so new strategies must be devised to accomplish a task and overcome this handicap. If a patient loses a leg and needs to get from point A to point B, they can use crutches, a wheelchair, or an artificial leg. If a patient loses partial sight from diabetic retinopathy and wants to enjoy a book, they can use a magnifier or other low vision aid, listen to the book on tape, or learn braille. In both cases, identification of goals, provision of the proper tools and training, and much practice are needed. Above all else, the desire to accomplish a task and a willingness to make changes are paramount.

Visual rehabilitation, whether learning to use a cane, mastering braille, or seeing with visual aids, is not a sign of defeat or of helplessness, but indicates courage and a yearning for independence. The patient knows what they would like to do, and won't let vision loss keep them from their goals. They will not resign themselves to being dependent on others for tasks which they can learn to do for themselves with some tools and training.