Why Visit a Low Vision Optometrist?Low Vision Care at ReFocus Eye Health in Marlton

The Impact of Vision Loss and The Benefit of Low Vision Care

During a low vision evaluation, Dr. Heuer OD, our low vision specialist will talk with you to understand your specific visual goals.

These may include:

• Improving reading ability, whether it’s newspapers, books, or labels.
• Enhancing face recognition to foster social interactions.
• Facilitating safer mobility around the home and in public spaces.
• Allowing participation in hobbies or work activities that bring joy and fulfillment.

By discussing your priorities and lifestyle needs, our low vision specialist will help guide you on how best to maximize your remaining vision and create a personalized rehabilitation plan aimed at achieving your visual goals. This collaboration ensures that the strategies implemented will have the most significant positive impact on your day-to-day life. While permanent vision loss cannot be reversed, that does not mean that you cannot do the things that vision loss has taken away, our goal is to help you regain your independence and live your best with the vision you have.

What are Common Visual Goals With Low Vision Care?

Reading

Living with low vision can make reading a significant challenge. Many individuals may struggle to make out text in books, newspapers, or on screens. The loss of central vision often results in blurred words or blind spots, making it nearly impossible to read comfortably. Specialized aids, such as magnifiers or electronic devices, can enhance text visibility, helping individuals to read again. Approximately 88% of people report difficulties with reading, highlighting the impact low vision can have on enjoying written materials.

Watching Television

For those with low vision, watching television can become a frustrating experience. Details can be hard to discern, such as characters or subtitles. The loss of peripheral vision may make it difficult to focus on the screen, leading to tension during viewing. Low vision aids like large-screen televisions or high-contrast settings can enhance the viewing experience and allow for fuller enjoyment of favorite shows and movies. Studies show that 77% of individuals with low vision cite watching television as a crucial part of their recreation.

Recognizing People

Identifying faces is greatly affected by low vision, especially for those with central vision loss. The inability to recognize friends and family can lead to social withdrawal and feelings of isolation. Many individuals may find themselves relying on other cues, such as voice or movement, to identify others. Strategies such as situational awareness and social cues are essential for maintaining relationships, but this can contribute to anxiety. Research indicates that around 65% of individuals with low vision experience difficulties in recognizing familiar faces.

Driving

Driving can be one of the most significantly impacted aspects of daily life for individuals with low vision. In many cases, low vision prevents individuals from obtaining a driver’s license. Many states allow driving with bioptic telescopes, a device that can enhance the driver’s ability to read road signs and notices. However, not all users feel confident behind the wheel, and alternative transportation options may be necessary, which can limit independence. Statistically, about 70% of individuals with visual impairments indicate a desire to drive but cannot.

Engaging in Hobbies

Participating in hobbies offers a vital connection to joy and fulfillment for many, but low vision can impose limitations. Activities such as gardening, knitting, or painting may become daunting due to the struggle to see details. With the right low vision aids tailored to specific interests, individuals can discover adaptive techniques that reinvigorate their passions, helping to maintain a sense of normalcy and enjoyment in life. Reports suggest that around 58% of individuals with low vision miss out on hobbies they once loved.

Maintaining Independence

Independence is crucial to a fulfilling life, and low vision can challenge this essential aspect for many individuals. Tasks like cooking, grooming, or even navigating familiar spaces can become difficult, leading to a reliance on others. Low vision rehabilitation can empower individuals with techniques and tools that foster independence, enabling them to perform daily tasks more confidently. A survey indicates that nearly 75% of those with low vision wish to regain or maintain their independence through effective support and resources.

Meet Dr. Leanne Heuer: Marlton’s Low Vision Specialist

Dr. Leanne Heuer is a trusted name in low vision care, bringing her advanced training and compassionate approach to patients throughout Burlington County, Gloucester County, and the Greater Philadelphia area. Her expertise spans both the medical and functional aspects of vision care, making her uniquely equipped to help patients overcome the challenges of vision loss.

What sets Dr. Heuer apart is her dedication to personalized care. She takes the time to understand each patient’s lifestyle, goals, and challenges, crafting tailored solutions to meet their needs. Outside of the office, Dr. Heuer enjoys hiking and exploring the rich culture of the Philadelphia region, reflecting her passion for community and connection.

What Is Low Vision Rehabilitation?

Low vision rehabilitation is a customized approach designed to help patients maximize their remaining vision and adapt to daily challenges. At ReFocus Eye Health, rehabilitation goes beyond medical care—it’s about creating a roadmap to greater independence and confidence.

Through evaluations and tailored plans, Dr. Heuer works with patients to identify their goals, whether that’s reading, working, or simply moving around with ease.

How We Help Patients Maximize Their Remaining Vision

At ReFocus Eye Health, we offer a range of tools and strategies to empower our low vision patients:

Optical Aids

• Magnifiers: Handheld, stand-mounted, or spectacle-mounted magnifiers for reading and close work.
• Telescopes: Bioptic telescopes for distance tasks like driving or watching TV.

Electronic Visual Aids

• CCTVs: Closed-circuit televisions for adjustable magnification and contrast.
• Screen Readers: Technology to help with reading digital text or navigating computers.

Adaptive Training

• Vision Rehabilitation Therapy: Techniques to enhance the use of remaining vision.
• Orientation and Mobility Training: Skills for safer navigation and greater confidence.

Home and Workplace Modifications

• Enhanced lighting, contrast adjustments, and layout recommendations to improve usability and safety.

What causes low vision?

Low vision arises from various eye diseases and conditions, each leading to different types of visual impairment. Here are some common causes:

• Macular Degeneration: A degenerative condition affecting the retina, particularly the macula, leading to central vision loss. It is most common in those over 50.
• Glaucoma: Damage to the optic nerve often due to increased intraocular pressure, potentially resulting in peripheral vision loss.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: Complications from diabetes that lead to retinal damage and vision impairment.
• Retinitis Pigmentosa: An inherited condition causing progressive vision loss, affecting night vision and peripheral awareness.
• Strokes: After a stroke vision is sometimes severely impacted in ways that lead to significant hardship and mobility issues.
• Stargardt, Best Disease, Juvenile Retinoschisis: These are some examples of genetic conditions that impact central vision, however unlike macular degeneration, which is primarily a condition found in older people, these conditions impact younger people making low vision crucial for school, work, and life.