I have posted several YouTube videos that may be interesting to anyone dealing with low vision. Here is a partial list of links:
Low Vision Glasses for Reading
https://youtu.be/ehpIuBWi1uI
Bioptic Telescopic Glasses
https://youtu.be/0N9TSR7e38Y
Driving with Bioptic Glasses
https://youtu.be/Uk5k_DaXCeQ
"I've been fighting for my eyesight all of my life."
https://youtu.be/pZVJC-KdRiA
Free Telephone Consultation with Dr. Armstrong
https://youtu.be/KJkro7ZloQo
There is more info on my website www.VirginiaLowVision.com
Showing posts with label Driving with Telescopic Glasses. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Driving with Telescopic Glasses. Show all posts
Thursday, June 18, 2015
Friday, May 29, 2015
Driving Safely With Bioptic Telescopic Glasses
Kelly Henley returned to see me last week to be recertified for driving with bioptic telescopic glasses. In 1996 Kelly was told that he had to give up driving. His vision was getting worse and he was no longer able to meet the Virginia DMV vision requirements. He'd been diagnosed years before with juvenile macular degeneration (Stargardt's disease).
It was not until the spring of 2013 that Kelly learned that he might be able to obtain a special driver's permit allowing him to drive while wearing bioptic glasses. His optometrist referred him to me for a low vision evaluation and I prescribed the bioptics. After using them for a couple months he applied for a learner's permit and then the special license. The DMV examiner was pleased with Kelly's driving during a road test and he was granted the license.
At his visit last week I heard how well he is doing driving with the glasses and how happy he is to be back on the road. He and his wife recently took a vacation trip to the Smokey Mountains and Kelly drive the entire way, at least 400 miles.
Kelly Henley is a great example of how someone with a vision loss can return to normal activities by using low vision glasses. He's gotten his independence back. He's happy and I am happy to have been able to help him.
If you have a vision loss from Stargardt's or some other cause you owe it to yourself to investigate low vision glasses. Give me a call. I will be happy to discuss your vision and your goals. I'll tell you if I can help. There is no charge for the call or the telephone consultation. Call me at 866 321-2030
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| Kelly Henley |
At his visit last week I heard how well he is doing driving with the glasses and how happy he is to be back on the road. He and his wife recently took a vacation trip to the Smokey Mountains and Kelly drive the entire way, at least 400 miles.
Kelly Henley is a great example of how someone with a vision loss can return to normal activities by using low vision glasses. He's gotten his independence back. He's happy and I am happy to have been able to help him.
If you have a vision loss from Stargardt's or some other cause you owe it to yourself to investigate low vision glasses. Give me a call. I will be happy to discuss your vision and your goals. I'll tell you if I can help. There is no charge for the call or the telephone consultation. Call me at 866 321-2030
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Bioptic Glasses and Driving
When I talk with people who have experienced a vision loss from eye disease I always ask what they would like to be able to do if I am able to help them. A large number would like to return to driving. Some have given up driving voluntarily and others have been unable to meet the requirements of the DMV and have lost their license. In either case they have lost their independence. They are now dependant on others to help them do the simplest of things, like a trip to the grocery store or post office or church.
Let me explain a bit about driving with low vision glasses. Bioptic telescopic glasses have small telescopes imbedded in the upper part of the regular lens. The person's eyeglass prescription is in the telescope as well as the regular lens. The telescope is used to spot things that need to be seen better like traffic signals, signs, other cars, people, etc. The person just lowers their chin a little, takes a quick look through the telescope and then goes back to driving with the main lens of the glasses, called the carrier lens. You will see examples of my patients wearing bioptic telescopes as I begin to post actual patient experiences and photos.
The laws are different in each state regarding driving with bioptic telescopes. Some allow persons to be licensed to drive with these special glasses and some states do not. All states will allow you to drive with the telescopic glasses if you already have a valid license. If you are wondering about your state's regulations you can check with the DMV or call me toll free and I'll tell you what your state allows and we can talk about whether you are likely to be able to meet the requirements. Call me at 1 866 321-2030. There is no charge for the call or the consultation.
My state, Virginia, is one of the states that issues a special driver's license for persons requiring bioptic telescopic glasses. Our DMV requires at least 20/200 in the better eye with the normal eyeglass lenses and improved to 20/70 with the bioptic. There is also a requirement of 150 degrees of peripheral vision (visual field). Once the person obtains the bioptic glasses they must use them daily for 2 months and then return to the low vision doctor for certification that they meet the above requirements.
If you think that you might require this type of license do not wait until the last minute. Call for an appointment 4 or 5 months in advance. That will allow time to have the low vision evaluation, receive the glasses and use them for the required 2 months before your license expires.
Many people have returned to safe driving by using bioptic telescopic glasses. Perhaps you could become one of them. For more information about help for low vision go to www.VirginiaLowVision.com
Let me explain a bit about driving with low vision glasses. Bioptic telescopic glasses have small telescopes imbedded in the upper part of the regular lens. The person's eyeglass prescription is in the telescope as well as the regular lens. The telescope is used to spot things that need to be seen better like traffic signals, signs, other cars, people, etc. The person just lowers their chin a little, takes a quick look through the telescope and then goes back to driving with the main lens of the glasses, called the carrier lens. You will see examples of my patients wearing bioptic telescopes as I begin to post actual patient experiences and photos.
The laws are different in each state regarding driving with bioptic telescopes. Some allow persons to be licensed to drive with these special glasses and some states do not. All states will allow you to drive with the telescopic glasses if you already have a valid license. If you are wondering about your state's regulations you can check with the DMV or call me toll free and I'll tell you what your state allows and we can talk about whether you are likely to be able to meet the requirements. Call me at 1 866 321-2030. There is no charge for the call or the consultation.
My state, Virginia, is one of the states that issues a special driver's license for persons requiring bioptic telescopic glasses. Our DMV requires at least 20/200 in the better eye with the normal eyeglass lenses and improved to 20/70 with the bioptic. There is also a requirement of 150 degrees of peripheral vision (visual field). Once the person obtains the bioptic glasses they must use them daily for 2 months and then return to the low vision doctor for certification that they meet the above requirements.
If you think that you might require this type of license do not wait until the last minute. Call for an appointment 4 or 5 months in advance. That will allow time to have the low vision evaluation, receive the glasses and use them for the required 2 months before your license expires.
Many people have returned to safe driving by using bioptic telescopic glasses. Perhaps you could become one of them. For more information about help for low vision go to www.VirginiaLowVision.com
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
"They're expensive but they are worth it."
I overheard two patients talking about their low vision glasses yesterday. One lady said to the other, "They're expensive, but they are worth it". The second lady agreed.
It was interesting to hear the comment because both of the ladies have seen significant benefits from their telescopic glasses. One lady, Laura Cunningham, was about to lose her driving privileges 3 years ago because macular degeneration had blurred her vision. Laura's retinal specialist recommended that she come to me for help. The bioptic telescopic glasses that I prescribed allowed her to obtain a special Virginia driver's permit. She's kept her independence and is able to drive around the small town where she lives. Yesterday she again passed the state's vision requirements and will be able to continue driving. Sometimes maintaining the ability to do the things that are important to us can be expensive. Staying independent is certainly worth it.
The second lady, Phyllis Gibson, has had significant vision problems since infancy. She has lost vision from corneal scaring and glaucoma. She's had corneal transplants and cataract surgery. She has been treated by numerous doctors at some of the most prestigious eye centers on the east coast. Phyllis told me "I've been fighting for my eyesight all of my life". Finally, she consulted a different ophthalmologist who looked beyond treating the eye diseases and recommended that she see me. The doctor hoped her life could be improved if low vision glasses helped her see better.
You can see Phyllis in the photo to the right wearing the telescopic glasses that I prescribed. With them she is able to read a standard size book, see TV better and see well for painting pictures. She is an artist. She has had to give up painting and is looking forward to getting back to it. Phyllis is the lady who I quoted. "They're expensive, but they are worth it." It is easy to see why she feels that way.
I appreciate these two patients and the doctors who referred them to me. Many people who have been told that nothing can be done to help them see better would benefit from low vision glasses. Ask your doctor if you might benefit. I'd be happy to speak with you on the phone. Call me for a free telephone consultation. 1 866-321-2030 More info at www.VirginiaLowVision.com
It was interesting to hear the comment because both of the ladies have seen significant benefits from their telescopic glasses. One lady, Laura Cunningham, was about to lose her driving privileges 3 years ago because macular degeneration had blurred her vision. Laura's retinal specialist recommended that she come to me for help. The bioptic telescopic glasses that I prescribed allowed her to obtain a special Virginia driver's permit. She's kept her independence and is able to drive around the small town where she lives. Yesterday she again passed the state's vision requirements and will be able to continue driving. Sometimes maintaining the ability to do the things that are important to us can be expensive. Staying independent is certainly worth it.
The second lady, Phyllis Gibson, has had significant vision problems since infancy. She has lost vision from corneal scaring and glaucoma. She's had corneal transplants and cataract surgery. She has been treated by numerous doctors at some of the most prestigious eye centers on the east coast. Phyllis told me "I've been fighting for my eyesight all of my life". Finally, she consulted a different ophthalmologist who looked beyond treating the eye diseases and recommended that she see me. The doctor hoped her life could be improved if low vision glasses helped her see better.
You can see Phyllis in the photo to the right wearing the telescopic glasses that I prescribed. With them she is able to read a standard size book, see TV better and see well for painting pictures. She is an artist. She has had to give up painting and is looking forward to getting back to it. Phyllis is the lady who I quoted. "They're expensive, but they are worth it." It is easy to see why she feels that way.I appreciate these two patients and the doctors who referred them to me. Many people who have been told that nothing can be done to help them see better would benefit from low vision glasses. Ask your doctor if you might benefit. I'd be happy to speak with you on the phone. Call me for a free telephone consultation. 1 866-321-2030 More info at www.VirginiaLowVision.com
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Bioptic Driving Video
All of my patients have reduced vision. When I ask what activities they most want me to help with the top two are reading and driving. Because I screen patients by phone before scheduling them I am usually able to help them achieve their goals.
Most states allow people with low vision to drive while wearing bioptic telescopic glasses. The states issue a special license to these people. I thought that it would be interesting for people to see how someone drives with bioptics and to actually have a chance to look through them. So I have posted a selfie video on my website. The video shows me driving while wearing bioptic glasses. As I drive along I explain them and discuss the requirements for obtaining a permit in Virginia. Finally I park and give the viewer an opportunity to look through the glasses and see what I am seeing.
If you'd like to learn about bioptic driving take a look at the video. I hope you find it interesting. Just click on this link to get to the video. www.VirginiaLowVision.com #biopticdriving #bioptictelescopes
Most states allow people with low vision to drive while wearing bioptic telescopic glasses. The states issue a special license to these people. I thought that it would be interesting for people to see how someone drives with bioptics and to actually have a chance to look through them. So I have posted a selfie video on my website. The video shows me driving while wearing bioptic glasses. As I drive along I explain them and discuss the requirements for obtaining a permit in Virginia. Finally I park and give the viewer an opportunity to look through the glasses and see what I am seeing.If you'd like to learn about bioptic driving take a look at the video. I hope you find it interesting. Just click on this link to get to the video. www.VirginiaLowVision.com #biopticdriving #bioptictelescopes
Monday, March 10, 2014
Macular Degeneration. Legally Blind? Maybe, Maybe Not
A few days ago I saw two patients who had recently been told by their retinal specialists that they were legally blind and must stop driving. The first patient, a West Virginian, received a letter from the retinal specialist stating that his best vision with glasses was right eye 20/400 and left eye 20/300. That meets the definition of legal blindness. The patient's children asked him to quit driving although his wife, who often rode with him, had not noticed that he was having any problems driving. When he came to me for help his visual acuity was 20/120 in the better eye with his glasses. That's not legally blind but still not good enough to drive.
After a thorough low vision evaluation I prescribed spectacle miniature (bioptic) telescopic glasses. With them he sees 20/50 with his better eye. That will allow him to obtain a special license to drive in West Virginia while wearing the telescopic glasses.
This man was quite aggravated that the previous doctor had not actually checked his vision himself. He relied on a staff person to do that.
The other patient is a young Virginian who suffers from Stargardt's disease. Her vision without any lenses is 20/120 with each eye. Definitely not legally blind. Wearing the telescopic glasses that I prescribed, her vision improves to better than 20/60 with each eye. She will be able to drive in Virginia with a special permit requiring her to wear the telescopic glasses.
In a busy ophthalmolgy office patients are often turned over to staff members to do some of the basic testing. Especially with someone who has reduced vision from eye disease, that may not be the best thing for the patient. Both of these people had been told by the doctor, as a result of the technician's testing, that they must give up driving. In both cases, careful testing revealed much better vision than they had been told.
If you've been told that you should not drive because of your vision it may be a good idea to consult a low vision optometrist who will take the time to carefully evaluate and prescribe appropriate help. Of course, there are times when people must give up driving for safety reasons and I respect their decision to do that. Giving up driving is not an easy thing to do. Give me a call for a free telephone consultation. I will tell you if low vision glasses will help you get back to activities that you have had to give up. Call me toll free 1 866 321-2030 #stargardtsdisease #biopticdriving
After a thorough low vision evaluation I prescribed spectacle miniature (bioptic) telescopic glasses. With them he sees 20/50 with his better eye. That will allow him to obtain a special license to drive in West Virginia while wearing the telescopic glasses.
This man was quite aggravated that the previous doctor had not actually checked his vision himself. He relied on a staff person to do that.
The other patient is a young Virginian who suffers from Stargardt's disease. Her vision without any lenses is 20/120 with each eye. Definitely not legally blind. Wearing the telescopic glasses that I prescribed, her vision improves to better than 20/60 with each eye. She will be able to drive in Virginia with a special permit requiring her to wear the telescopic glasses.
In a busy ophthalmolgy office patients are often turned over to staff members to do some of the basic testing. Especially with someone who has reduced vision from eye disease, that may not be the best thing for the patient. Both of these people had been told by the doctor, as a result of the technician's testing, that they must give up driving. In both cases, careful testing revealed much better vision than they had been told.
If you've been told that you should not drive because of your vision it may be a good idea to consult a low vision optometrist who will take the time to carefully evaluate and prescribe appropriate help. Of course, there are times when people must give up driving for safety reasons and I respect their decision to do that. Giving up driving is not an easy thing to do. Give me a call for a free telephone consultation. I will tell you if low vision glasses will help you get back to activities that you have had to give up. Call me toll free 1 866 321-2030 #stargardtsdisease #biopticdriving
Sunday, November 3, 2013
"I wish I'd known about you and these glasses 15 years ago."
Kelly Henley was diagnosed with juvenile macular degeneration (also known as Stargardt's Disease) when he was in grade school. Over the years his vision gradually declined until he was no longer able to drive. Without driving he was unable to work and had to retire early. He had been told by his eye doctor that there was no help for him. He eventually changed to a different optometrist who referred him to me for low vision help. When Kelly came to me his number one goal was to get back to driving. Additionally, he wanted to be able to recognize his friend's faces and read better. He's a sports fan and wanted to see the action better when he goes to games. Kelly's vision is not good enough to obtain a regular, unrestricted driver's permit in Virginia. With the help of the bioptic telescopic glasses that I prescribed for him he easily passed the vision requirements for a daylight license requiring that he wear the bipotics. In addition to the bioptics I also prescribed telemicroscopic glasses, a special telescope allowing both eyes to focus at about 12" from his face. Kelly is using them for reading, including studying the DMV manual. He's preparing to take the written and driving tests and get his license back. If you have had experiences like Kelly Henley and want help with your vision please give me a call. I will be happy to discuss your vision and your goals. I'll tell you if I can help you. I'd like to help you get back to reading, driving and other activities that are difficult for you. Call me toll free 866-321-2030.
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Driving With Low Vision
Many people with low vision can continue driving by using special bioptic telescopic glasses. The link below takes you to a new video from The International Academy of Low Vision Specialists. Take a look at it and you will have a better understanding of how bioptics work and how they help for driving.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yroVjFsOmo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yroVjFsOmo
Friday, May 11, 2012
"I highly recommend Dr. David Armstrong
Patients often write to let me know of their experiences with low vision and their successes with the special telescopic or microscopic glasses that I prescribed for them. Excerpts from one such letter follows:
"For years, I have struggled with low vision. I was diagnosed with Macular Degeneration and have been seen by four different eye specialists over the last few years. I have even undergone surgery to regain my sight.
Nothing worked and I was very distraught about the situation. My family showed me Dr. Armstrong's advertisement and I made an appointment.
Dr. Armstrong is a kind, caring person. His winning personality and positive words of encouragement gave me hope. With Dr. Armstrong's help, I can now read for periods of time and was able to maintain my license to drive with the aid of bioptic telescopic glasses.
I highly recommend Dr. David Armstrong. He helped me regain a part of my life."
Sincerely,
Helen Pullen
Virginia
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Bioptic Telescopes and Driving
When I talk with people who have experienced a vision loss from eye disease I always ask what they would like to be able to do if I am able to help them. A large number would like to return to driving. Some have given up driving voluntarily and others have been unable to meet the requirements of the DMV and have lost their license. In either case they have lost their independence. They are now dependant on others to help them do the simplest of things, like a trip to the grocery store or post office or church.
Let me explain a bit about driving with low vision glasses. Bioptic telescopic glasses have small telescopes imbedded in the upper part of the regular lens. The person's eyeglass prescription is in the telescope as well as the regular lens. The telescope is used to spot things that need to be seen better like traffic signals, signs, other cars, people, etc. The person just lowers their chin a little, takes a quick look through the telescope and then goes back to driving with the main lens of the glasses, called the carrier lens. You will see examples of my patients wearing bioptic telescopes as I begin to post actual patient experiences and photos.
The laws are different in each state regarding driving with bioptic telescopes. Some allow persons to be licensed to drive with these special glasses and some states do not. All states will allow you to drive with the telescopic glasses if you already have a valid license. If you are wondering about your state's regulations you can check with the DMV or call me toll free and I'll tell you what your state allows and we can talk about whether you are likely to be able to meet the requirements. Call me at 1 866 321-2030. There is no charge for the call or the consultation.
My state, Virginia, is one of the states that issues a special driver's license for persons requiring bioptic telescopic glasses. Our DMV requires at least 20/200 in the better eye with the normal eyeglass lenses and improved to 20/70 with the bioptic. There is also a requirement of 150 degrees of peripheral vision (visual field). Once the person obtains the bioptic glasses they must use them daily for 2 months and then return to the low vision doctor for certification that they meet the above requirements.
West Virginia is another state which allows the use of bioptic telescopic glasses for driving. Licensing requirements are somewhat different than in Virginia. I will be happy to discuss the requirements with you.
If you think that you might require this type of license do not wait until the last minute. Call for an appointment 4 or 5 months in advance. That will allow time to have the low vision evaluation, receive the glasses and use them for the required 2 months before your license expires.
Many people have returned to safe driving by using bioptic telescopic glasses. Perhaps you could become one of them.
Let me explain a bit about driving with low vision glasses. Bioptic telescopic glasses have small telescopes imbedded in the upper part of the regular lens. The person's eyeglass prescription is in the telescope as well as the regular lens. The telescope is used to spot things that need to be seen better like traffic signals, signs, other cars, people, etc. The person just lowers their chin a little, takes a quick look through the telescope and then goes back to driving with the main lens of the glasses, called the carrier lens. You will see examples of my patients wearing bioptic telescopes as I begin to post actual patient experiences and photos.
The laws are different in each state regarding driving with bioptic telescopes. Some allow persons to be licensed to drive with these special glasses and some states do not. All states will allow you to drive with the telescopic glasses if you already have a valid license. If you are wondering about your state's regulations you can check with the DMV or call me toll free and I'll tell you what your state allows and we can talk about whether you are likely to be able to meet the requirements. Call me at 1 866 321-2030. There is no charge for the call or the consultation.
My state, Virginia, is one of the states that issues a special driver's license for persons requiring bioptic telescopic glasses. Our DMV requires at least 20/200 in the better eye with the normal eyeglass lenses and improved to 20/70 with the bioptic. There is also a requirement of 150 degrees of peripheral vision (visual field). Once the person obtains the bioptic glasses they must use them daily for 2 months and then return to the low vision doctor for certification that they meet the above requirements.
West Virginia is another state which allows the use of bioptic telescopic glasses for driving. Licensing requirements are somewhat different than in Virginia. I will be happy to discuss the requirements with you.
If you think that you might require this type of license do not wait until the last minute. Call for an appointment 4 or 5 months in advance. That will allow time to have the low vision evaluation, receive the glasses and use them for the required 2 months before your license expires.
Many people have returned to safe driving by using bioptic telescopic glasses. Perhaps you could become one of them.
Friday, January 27, 2012
"I'm thrilled"
Recently a gentleman returned to receive his low vision glasses that I'd prescribed a few weeks before following a thorough low vision evaluation. He is a builder and cabinet maker in Baltimore, MD and suffers a vision loss from macular degeneration. He had requested help with reading, especially blueprints, and also watching TV and driving. He has been seen regularly for his macular degeneration at Johns Hopkins and at a large retinal pactice in Washington, D.C. Neither had referred him to a low vision specialist. He found me through my newspaper ad.
To help him with reading I prescribed glasses which included a telebinocular. the telebinocular is a small telescope built into the lower part of the eyeglass lens, angled down and focused for reading. He brought blueprints to his evaluation and was able to read them easily with the telebinocular glasses. Yestereday I handed him USA Today. He was able to easily read the regular print and also print less than half that size.
Next I dispensed his bioptic driving glasses. They have small telescopes near the top of the lenses that magnify 2.2 times. He looked down the hallway at a framed picture about 35 feet away and said "With my regular prescription that is just a blur. When I look with the telescopes it is much easier to see. I can see detail in the picture".
The final pair, set to focus at 9 feet will help him watch TV. They include wide angle bioptic telescopes. He was able to see much better at the 9 foot distance of his TV.
As he was about to leave for home I asked him how he felt about the new low vision glasses. He said, "I am thrilled. I have been really excited waiting to get the glasses and I am just thrilled at the way they help me see. It is a shame that it is so hard for people to find help from a doctor like you. It must be really satisfying helping people with poor vision."
I am writing about this man's experience because it illustrates several things:
1. Even though people with vision loss have been cared for by the best doctors they are rarely referred to a low vision doctor who may be able to help them.
2. With a proper evaluation low vision glasses can often be prescribed to help the person return to activities that they have had trouble with or have given up.
3. Low vision glasses are prescribed for very specific purposes. It may require more than one pair to meet the person's goals.
In answer to my patient's question, "Yes, it is very satisfying to help people see better". Especially those with severe vision problems who have been told by other doctors that nothing will help them. I would like to help you. If you suffer from vision loss from macular degeneration, diabetes, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt's disease, stroke or some other cause give me a call. I will be happy to speak with you at no charge and I will be honest with you. If I feel that I can help we will schedule an evaluation. If I don't think I can help you I won't make you an appointment. I don't want to take people's time and money and then disappoint them. By asking the right questions on the phone I am able to help over 90% of the low vision patients who I see. Call me toll free at 866 321-2030 for a free phone consultation.
To help him with reading I prescribed glasses which included a telebinocular. the telebinocular is a small telescope built into the lower part of the eyeglass lens, angled down and focused for reading. He brought blueprints to his evaluation and was able to read them easily with the telebinocular glasses. Yestereday I handed him USA Today. He was able to easily read the regular print and also print less than half that size.
Next I dispensed his bioptic driving glasses. They have small telescopes near the top of the lenses that magnify 2.2 times. He looked down the hallway at a framed picture about 35 feet away and said "With my regular prescription that is just a blur. When I look with the telescopes it is much easier to see. I can see detail in the picture".
The final pair, set to focus at 9 feet will help him watch TV. They include wide angle bioptic telescopes. He was able to see much better at the 9 foot distance of his TV.
As he was about to leave for home I asked him how he felt about the new low vision glasses. He said, "I am thrilled. I have been really excited waiting to get the glasses and I am just thrilled at the way they help me see. It is a shame that it is so hard for people to find help from a doctor like you. It must be really satisfying helping people with poor vision."
I am writing about this man's experience because it illustrates several things:
1. Even though people with vision loss have been cared for by the best doctors they are rarely referred to a low vision doctor who may be able to help them.
2. With a proper evaluation low vision glasses can often be prescribed to help the person return to activities that they have had trouble with or have given up.
3. Low vision glasses are prescribed for very specific purposes. It may require more than one pair to meet the person's goals.
In answer to my patient's question, "Yes, it is very satisfying to help people see better". Especially those with severe vision problems who have been told by other doctors that nothing will help them. I would like to help you. If you suffer from vision loss from macular degeneration, diabetes, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt's disease, stroke or some other cause give me a call. I will be happy to speak with you at no charge and I will be honest with you. If I feel that I can help we will schedule an evaluation. If I don't think I can help you I won't make you an appointment. I don't want to take people's time and money and then disappoint them. By asking the right questions on the phone I am able to help over 90% of the low vision patients who I see. Call me toll free at 866 321-2030 for a free phone consultation.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Technological Advances Benefit People With Low Vision, USA Today
The following summarizes two interesting articles from USA Today.
USA Today (9/12, Healy) reports, "Low vision is not a direct result of aging," explained Dawn Kissner DeCarlo, OD, MS, FAAO, "chair of the American Optometric Association Vision Rehabilitation section and director of the University of Alabama Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation," but "usually 'results from eye injuries, birth defects, macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, poorly controlled diabetes and other eye and health conditions.'" The article details technological advances that make it possible for people with low vision to live as normal a life as possible. "Given Baby Boomers' higher risk for age-related eye disorders and a dramatic nationwide increase in type 2 diabetes, the National Eye Institute estimates that vision disorders will double in 30 years."
"Bioptics" Help People With Low Vision Drive. In a related story, USA Today (9/12, Healy) reports that "independence and mobility of driving is a real option for some with vision impairments, thanks to 'bioptic driving.'" Bioptics "are small telescopes mounted into ophthalmic corrective lenses above a person's line of sight that improve the sharpness of far vision." According to optometrist Laura Windsor of the Low Vision Centers of Indiana, "those eligible for bioptic driving typically have 'mild to moderate vision loss that is stable,' along with 'pretty near-perfect' peripheral vision."
USA Today (9/12, Healy) reports, "Low vision is not a direct result of aging," explained Dawn Kissner DeCarlo, OD, MS, FAAO, "chair of the American Optometric Association Vision Rehabilitation section and director of the University of Alabama Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation," but "usually 'results from eye injuries, birth defects, macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, poorly controlled diabetes and other eye and health conditions.'" The article details technological advances that make it possible for people with low vision to live as normal a life as possible. "Given Baby Boomers' higher risk for age-related eye disorders and a dramatic nationwide increase in type 2 diabetes, the National Eye Institute estimates that vision disorders will double in 30 years."
"Bioptics" Help People With Low Vision Drive. In a related story, USA Today (9/12, Healy) reports that "independence and mobility of driving is a real option for some with vision impairments, thanks to 'bioptic driving.'" Bioptics "are small telescopes mounted into ophthalmic corrective lenses above a person's line of sight that improve the sharpness of far vision." According to optometrist Laura Windsor of the Low Vision Centers of Indiana, "those eligible for bioptic driving typically have 'mild to moderate vision loss that is stable,' along with 'pretty near-perfect' peripheral vision."
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Woman With Macular Degeneration is Able to Return to Driving
When she came to me for a low vision evaluation Laura Stanley's goals were:
1. To be able to read letters, newspapers, medicine labels
2. Return to driving
3. See the television picture better
4. Recognize peoples faces
As a result of her low vision evaluation I was able to help Mrs. Stanley achieve all of those goals.
Mrs. Stanley suffers from macular degeneration and with her glasses was able to see only 20/120 with her better eye. Not sufficient to drive in Virginia. She hoped to be able to obtain telescopic glasses and get a Virginia driver's permit allowing her to drive with them.
Through testing her vision with various types of low vision glasses I determined that 1.7X bioptic telescopic glasses which included her eyeglass prescription allowed her to read 20/70 letters with each eye. That meets the DMV requirement to drive with bioptics. The same glasses help her recognize her friends faces from a greater distance.
For television I prescribed wide angle telescopic glasses adjusted for the distance of her TV. A cap with a convex lens can be placed over the left telescopic lens and is used for reading.
Two months after receiving her telescopic glasses Mrs. Stanley returned to me for certification to apply for the special drivers permit. She passed that easily wearing the bioptics and was able to return to driving.
Mrs. Stanley told me, "These glasses are really worth the money. I can read and see TV better. I have used them at meetings and was able to see the person leading it better. I am looking forward to getting back to driving."
If your vision is keeping you from doing the things that you'd like to do give me a call. I'll talk it over with you and tell you on the phone if I can help you. I do not accept low vision patients unless I feel that I will be able to help them achieve their goals. Call me toll free at 1 866 321-2030.
1. To be able to read letters, newspapers, medicine labels
2. Return to driving
3. See the television picture better
4. Recognize peoples faces
As a result of her low vision evaluation I was able to help Mrs. Stanley achieve all of those goals.
Mrs. Stanley suffers from macular degeneration and with her glasses was able to see only 20/120 with her better eye. Not sufficient to drive in Virginia. She hoped to be able to obtain telescopic glasses and get a Virginia driver's permit allowing her to drive with them.
Through testing her vision with various types of low vision glasses I determined that 1.7X bioptic telescopic glasses which included her eyeglass prescription allowed her to read 20/70 letters with each eye. That meets the DMV requirement to drive with bioptics. The same glasses help her recognize her friends faces from a greater distance.
For television I prescribed wide angle telescopic glasses adjusted for the distance of her TV. A cap with a convex lens can be placed over the left telescopic lens and is used for reading.
Two months after receiving her telescopic glasses Mrs. Stanley returned to me for certification to apply for the special drivers permit. She passed that easily wearing the bioptics and was able to return to driving.
Mrs. Stanley told me, "These glasses are really worth the money. I can read and see TV better. I have used them at meetings and was able to see the person leading it better. I am looking forward to getting back to driving."
If your vision is keeping you from doing the things that you'd like to do give me a call. I'll talk it over with you and tell you on the phone if I can help you. I do not accept low vision patients unless I feel that I will be able to help them achieve their goals. Call me toll free at 1 866 321-2030.
Friday, April 3, 2009
An Interesting Patient With Diabetic Retinopathy
This week a patient with a vision loss caused by diabetic retinopathy came to me for help. She had completely lost the vision of one eye and the vision in the other was damaged also. She was having problems with both her distance and near vision. There were several very different tasks that she wanted help with. The solutions to these problems illustrate some of the many ways that low vision patients can be helped.
Her vision goals and the solutions that I recommended to her are listed below:
1. She has trouble reading signs when driving. I prescribed a bioptic telescopic lens for her better eye which resulted in her reading 20/25 letters. When we took the testing lens outdoors she was able to read distant signs much better.
2. She has trouble using her computer. It is blurred and hazy. I prescribed a convex lens cap for the bioptic lens to make the driving telescope focus at the computer screen. An amber tint in that lens improved contrast on the screen making it much easier for her to see.
3. She wanted to be able to read, use her checkbook, etc and previous strong reading glasses focused too close to her face. She wanted to hold her books at a more normal distance. I prescribed a telemicroscope that focused at 16 inches from her face allowing her to hold her book in her lap and read easily.
4. She wanted to be able to read her insulin pump and glucose meter. Both of them had small screens with black letters and numbers on a gray background. Not very much contrast and very difficult for her to read. I prescribed a hand magnifier with an LED light and she had no trouble reading those small screens.
There are many ways that people with low vision can be helped to see better. Often they have several different requirements like this lady had. A low vision doctor with a thorough knowledge of the various devices available can often make life much easier and more enjoyable for them.
If you have low vision and some specific tasks that you'd like help with give me a call. I'll talk it over with you and tell you if I will be able to help. Call me toll free 866 321-2030 for a free phone consultation.
Her vision goals and the solutions that I recommended to her are listed below:
1. She has trouble reading signs when driving. I prescribed a bioptic telescopic lens for her better eye which resulted in her reading 20/25 letters. When we took the testing lens outdoors she was able to read distant signs much better.
2. She has trouble using her computer. It is blurred and hazy. I prescribed a convex lens cap for the bioptic lens to make the driving telescope focus at the computer screen. An amber tint in that lens improved contrast on the screen making it much easier for her to see.
3. She wanted to be able to read, use her checkbook, etc and previous strong reading glasses focused too close to her face. She wanted to hold her books at a more normal distance. I prescribed a telemicroscope that focused at 16 inches from her face allowing her to hold her book in her lap and read easily.
4. She wanted to be able to read her insulin pump and glucose meter. Both of them had small screens with black letters and numbers on a gray background. Not very much contrast and very difficult for her to read. I prescribed a hand magnifier with an LED light and she had no trouble reading those small screens.
There are many ways that people with low vision can be helped to see better. Often they have several different requirements like this lady had. A low vision doctor with a thorough knowledge of the various devices available can often make life much easier and more enjoyable for them.
If you have low vision and some specific tasks that you'd like help with give me a call. I'll talk it over with you and tell you if I will be able to help. Call me toll free 866 321-2030 for a free phone consultation.
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