Low Vision Exams

Vision glasses can't fully fix? There's still a plan.

Low vision is significant vision loss that standard glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery can’t fully correct. Our low vision exams focus on what you can still do, and how to do more of it.

Overview

Understanding low vision

Low vision is more than blurry eyesight. It’s a significant impairment that can’t be fully corrected with standard treatments. People with low vision still have some sight, but they often need specialized tools and adjustments to manage everyday tasks.

Not a normal part of aging

Low vision can affect people of all ages and has many causes. It’s also different from total blindness, and early support makes a meaningful difference.

Causes

Common causes of low vision

Several conditions can lead to low vision. Symptoms vary, but often include trouble seeing in dim light, blurry or distorted vision, and difficulty recognizing faces or reading small print.

Macular Degeneration

A leading cause of vision loss in older adults. It affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision.

Glaucoma

Damages the optic nerve and often causes loss of peripheral (side) vision over time.

Diabetic Retinopathy

A complication of diabetes that damages the blood vessels in the retina and can cause severe impairment.

Cataracts

Clouding of the lens that causes blur and poor night vision. Often treatable with surgery when addressed early.

Retinitis Pigmentosa

A genetic condition that can cause night blindness and tunnel vision over time.

Your Exam

How a low vision exam works

A low vision exam goes beyond a standard eye test. The goal is to understand exactly how your vision is affected and which tools will help most in your daily life.

Visual Acuity

We measure how clearly you see at different distances and in different lighting.

Visual Field

We evaluate your peripheral vision and detect any blind spots that affect daily tasks.

Contrast Sensitivity

We test how well you tell shades of light and dark apart, which matters for reading and navigating.

Refraction

We determine the best prescription for glasses or contact lenses, so any remaining vision is as clear as possible.

Aids

Tools that can help

The right tools depend on your vision, your environment, and your daily routine. Here are common options:

Handheld Magnifiers

Enlarge text and small details for reading and close tasks.

Telescopes

Optical aids that bring distant objects into clearer view.

Electronic Reading Aids

Read text aloud or display it in larger, high-contrast formats.

Video Magnifiers

Cameras that project enlarged images onto a screen for detailed viewing.

Try before you buy

Test devices in the settings where you’ll use them most, and choose one that’s comfortable and portable.

Support

Rehabilitation and support services

Low vision rehabilitation helps people adapt to vision loss and build new skills that keep them independent.

Orientation and Mobility

Techniques for moving through spaces safely and independently.

Adaptive Daily Living

Strategies for cooking, dressing, managing medications, and using technology.

Emotional Support

Counseling and peer groups for the emotional impact of vision loss.

Everyday Tips

Making daily life easier

Small changes at home can make a real difference in how comfortable and independent daily life feels.

Use high contrast colors

Improve lighting

Keep items in consistent places

Label with large print or braille

Take regular rest breaks

You don't have to manage this alone

Book a low vision exam at Foley Vision Center and we’ll build a plan around the life you want to live.

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

9:00am – 6:00pm

Wednesday

9:00am – 6:00pm

Thursday

9:00am – 6:00pm

Friday

9:00am – 6:00pm

Saturday-Sunday

Closed