What do we mean by 'Low Vision?'
The majority of people who have blurred vision simply correct this by wearing spectacles or contact lenses.
However, when a person has reduced vision in both eyes which cannot be improved with conventional spectacles or contact lenses, they may be described as having sight loss or low vision. The degree of low vision will vary between individuals and will depend upon the underlying cause or condition.
Although some individuals may be born with poor sight, the vast majority have low vision as a result of a condition or disease that they have acquired in later life. In fact, over 70% of patients who have low vision are over 75 years of age.
A person who has low vision may also be described as being Visually Impaired, particularly if the level of sight loss affects them in their work or daily lives.
What can cause Low Vision?
Individuals may develop low vision as a result of an eye disease, such as glaucoma, or a general medical condition, such as diabetes. Conditions such as cataract and Age Related Macular Degeneration are conditions that affect many elderly people.
There are many conditions that can cause sight loss. Some are relatively common, whilst others may be quite rare. All individuals are recommended to visit their own eye care practitioner, such as their own Optometrist, on a regular basis. For adults and older children this may be once every two years, and more frequently for younger children and the elderly.
If someone suspects sight loss what should they do?
If someone suspects that they have a problem with their eyes, they are recommended to visit an Optometrist for an eye examination.
Optometrists are highly qualified health care professionals who examine eyes.
If Low Vision has been diagnosed, can magnification help?
It makes sense that if we are unable to see something that we either get closer to it or try to make it bigger in some way. That is essentially the basis of magnification. Any device that helps a person with visual impairment to see better may be called a Low Vision Aid (LVA).
Low Vision Aids may be split into two groups, optical and electronic devices.
Optical Low Vision Aids, such as simple hand magnifiers, use an optical lens to magnify the object, such as a newspaper, to assist reading.
Electronic magnification is a relatively recent concept. Companies such as Bierley have developed a range of products that capture magnify objects and print electronically. Electronic magnifiers are often called Electronic Vision Enhancement Systems, or EVES.
Bierley magnifiers and magnification
Bierley's range of electronic magnifiers is suitable for all to use, from the very young to the elderly.
There is more scope with electronic magnification than with traditional optical magnifiers.
- The image may be electronically enhanced and therefore the quality of the image produced is often much better.
- Electronic magnifiers have a greater range of magnification than optical aids.
- The image does not suffer from the distortion often experienced whilst using an optical low vision aid.
What conditions can be assisted by Bierley magnifiers?
Anyone suffering from sight loss may benefit from using a Bierley electronic device. The range of magnification obtained from the large variety of devices that Bierley produce will assist most individuals.
Would electronic magnification work for everyone?
Yes. Most people with low vision need assistance in reading to continue leading an independent life. Whether reading a newspaper from cover to cover or checking the prices in the supermarket, electronic magnification can assist most people suffering from sight loss.
Who can help with magnification?
A number of eye care practitioners, specifically Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians specialise in becoming Low Vision Practitioners.
Where possible, it is important to ensure that the correct level of magnification is being utilised in the correct way. There are no detrimental effects of using the incorrect level of magnification, but it can avoid a lot of frustration and disappointment.
In addition, a low vision practitioner will be able to give additional helpful tips and hints on how best to use magnification, thereby getting the most out of the low vision aid.
Because there is a good range of magnification produced by Bierley magnifiers, most individuals will be able to find a device to address their individual needs.
Will an individual's eyes get worse if they use their Low Vision Aid or Bierley magnifier too much?
Simply, no. The person should not give up on reading either with or without their glasses or magnifier.
If they feel that their sight is changing, then it is not as a result of using their magnifier.
We would recommend that they visit their Optometrist for an eye examination to determine the underlying cause.
Where can I find further information?
.
Waking up to Maggie
.
Laptop-friendly magnification
.
Magic of mighty Mouse
.
The MonoMouse family
.
Bierley's MonoMouse
How can I demonstrate the Bierley range of electronic magnifiers to my customers?
Please call our sales team on 1 800 985-0535 who will be pleased to assist you with a demonstration model.
What do I do if a product goes wrong?
Quite simply, they don't ! However, if you have any concerns regarding our products, please contact us on 1 800 985-0535 and your query will be dealt with as a priority.
Still not convinced?
Please read the testimonials on both the professional and consumer sides of our website, to see what our customers say about us.
Still have questions?
Call us free on 1 800 985-0535 and speak to a real person.
|
Home
