Author: midwestlowvision

A woman tries out fused executive bifocals, a type of low vision glasses for reading.

Low Vision Glasses for Reading

Posted on by midwestlowvision


Low Vision Reading Glasses Guide from Midwest Low Vision

For patients with low vision, the loss of ability to read print can be challenging and disheartening, impacting work, household tasks, independence, and overall quality of life. Fortunately, there are specialized reading glasses that can support remaining vision and allow reading to be possible for these individuals once again. As low vision specialists or other eye care professionals, our task is to identify the type of low reading glasses that would best meet the patient’s needs. Read on to learn more about the most common categories of low vision glasses for reading.

 

Bifocal

Bifocals, a type of low vision reading glasses

The first option is simply strong standard bifocals or reading glasses. Often, simple prescription reading glasses with prisms incorporated and made by a local lab can work. You can also use a bifocal and perhaps decenter the segments a bit to create some base-in prism to aid convergence (eye teaming). The advantages of bifocals and prismatic reading glasses are:

  • They are simpler in design.
  • They are less expensive.
  • They provide a wide field of view.
  • They are binocular, allowing the use of both eyes together..

The main limitation of bifocals and stronger reading glasses is the working distance. The stronger the prescription, the closer the focal point needs to be, so there is a limit to the strength we can go with these low vision glasses.

 

Prismatic Segment Bifocal

Prismatic bifocals offer an alternative to decentering standard bifocals by incorporating a built-in, base-in prism into the glasses. These can have the D-shaped segment in the bottom, but with the appropriate base-in prism. This design provides the necessary prism for comfortable near vision without affecting distance vision, which is particularly beneficial in the higher powers.

 

Fused Executive Bifocal

Fused executive bifocal low vision reading glasses

Fused executive bifocal glasses consist of two lens segments fused together, one atop the other. They are called “executive” or “Franklin-style” because, like Ben Franklin’s original design, the lens goes all the way across the width of the frame. The design of these low vision glasses provides:

  • The option for different strengths of prism in the top and bottom.
  • A very large reading area at the bottom, and all the way across the lens.

The disadvantage of fused executive lenses is that they can be a little blurry at the lower edge of the lens; the distortion becomes greater with higher powers.

 

Clear-Image Microscopic and Prismatic

Clear image microscopic reading glasses for low vision

The Clear Image, two-piece microscopic and prismatic design, a system for a poorer vision level, provides greater edge-to-edge clarity. These lenses feature a two-piece design where the prism is offset in the magnifying lens, effectively reducing many distortions which normally occur with prisms and strong magnifying lenses.

The advantages of this design include:

  • Clear edge-to-edge vision with a two-piece system.
  • Extra prism support for higher powers.

The disadvantages of these lenses include:

  • Cosmetic concerns due to the lens thickness.
  • The need for a close working distance.
  • Limited strength before prism thickness begins to restrict wearability.

I will use these when a patient needs, or just prefers, to have both eyes working together and doesn’t mind this close-up working distance. Looking from edge-to-edge in this lens it is extremely clear, and the binocularity is excellent.

 

Reading Telescopic

Reading telescopic glasses

Reading telescopic glasses feature miniature telescopes to enhance near or immediate vision. The telescopes are mounted low and angled down to allow for comfortable close work. They can also be mounted on-center for computer use.

There are many different styles of near telescopic lenses. One model is the Ocutech SightScope NearView. Essentially, this is their distance system, but it includes prismatic caps that allow focus on near tasks. When distance vision is required, the caps can be flipped up and out of the way.

Another model is the Designs for Vision reading telescopic system. These lenses allow for an increased working distance compared to a microscope of a similar power, while still achieving an effective level of magnification.

In general, the advantages of the near telescopic glasses are:

  • A defined working distance.
  • Excellent edge-to-edge clarity.
  • Availability of a binocular or monocular system.

 

Microscopic Bifocal

Microscopic bifocal low vision glasses for reading

This system is very similar to a Clear Image, full-diameter microscope, but it’s smaller and can be built in as a bifocal. There are two different sizes: Type R is the larger size, and Type E is the smaller.

The advantages of these lenses are:

  • As the microscope is incorporated into the bifocal, a patient can just wear these, and the microscope is always there, but out of the way when not in use.
  • The lens offers high magnification with edge-to-edge clarity.

The disadvantage of the microscopic bifocal is a smaller field of view and the working distance must be very close.

 

Conclusion

There are a variety of low vision glasses to help people regain the ability to read and perform close-up tasks, and every option comes with unique advantages and disadvantages. The best choice depends on the patient’s needs and comfort with working distance and design. Careful selection of the appropriate lens can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life and independence. If you would like to learn more, get in touch with us today.

Dr. Jarrod Long discussing the difference between wet and dry macular degeneration in his optometry office.

What is the Difference between Wet and Dry Macular Degeneration?

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What is the Difference Between Wet and Dry Macular Degeneration?

Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration or AMD, is a common cause of vision loss for people aged 50 and older. When discussing macular degeneration, it is important to understand the difference between the two types: wet and dry macular degeneration. Each type of the condition affects vision in different ways and requires unique approaches to treatment. Knowing the differences can help patients and medical providers make informed decisions and potentially mitigate the progression of the disease.

What is Macular Degeneration?

To understand what AMD is, let’s start by looking at the structure of the eye. It helps to think of the eye like a camera. When light enters the eye, it first passes through the cornea, which acts as the lens at the front of the eye. Next, it moves through the natural lens, located just behind the colored iris and the black pupil. From there, the light travels through the jelly-like vitreous inside the eye and reaches the retina at the back. The macula, a highly specialized part of the retina, is located at the center of the back of the eye.

Macular degeneration affects this critical area, damaging the retina and making it harder to see fine details, read, recognize faces, or distinguish colors.

What Are the Symptoms of Macular Degeneration, and What Does Someone See?

Often an initial symptom of many illnesses is the presence of pain, which may indicate there is a problem. Macular degeneration, however, is not associated with pain, which can make its presence go overlooked at first. Some of the early symptoms include:

  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty reading small print
  • Changes in color vision
  • Distorted vision, in which straight lines like door frames may appear wavy or bent

As macular degeneration advances, people begin to experience a loss of central vision. This means that the object of their focus is missing. For instance, if you look at someone’s face, you might only see the ears and shoulders, but not the face itself. Or if you look at a clock, you may see the numbers, but not the hands.

It’s important to note that having some of the above symptoms does not necessarily mean you have macular degeneration; other eye conditions, like cataracts or refractive error, may cause similar symptoms, so it’s important to get a proper evaluation from your eye doctor to determine the precise cause of your symptoms.

What is Dry Macular Degeneration?

To understand the difference between wet and dry macular degeneration, the first thing to know is that you can’t develop wet macular degeneration without first having dry macular degeneration. Dry, or atrophic, macular degeneration is the more common form, accounting for nearly 80% of AMD cases. It occurs when parts of the macula deteriorate due to the accumulation of protein deposits called drusen under the retina. These drusen interfere with the macula’s ability to function correctly. In the majority of cases, AMD does not advance beyond the presence of drusen and some color changes; however, more advanced stages lead to geographic atrophy, in which larger swaths of the retina are affected.

What is Wet Macular Degeneration?

What happens with wet, or exudative, macular degeneration is that your body attempts to “fix” the dry macular degeneration problem in the macula by creating new blood vessels to supply more oxygen and nutrients. While this response might heal other parts of the body, it doesn’t work well in the eye. Instead, these new blood vessels often leak fluid, or even blood, which leads to the name “wet macular degeneration.” Unfortunately, this leakage damages your vision faster than dry macular degeneration does.

Risk Factors of Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration can be caused by genetic, environmental, or lifestyle factors. When we talk about the difference between wet and dry macular degeneration, the risk factors for both are generally the same and include:

  • Age: Age is the biggest risk factor; the condition primarily affects individuals over the age of 60.
  • Family history: If you have had a family member with macular degeneration, you have a greater chance of developing it.
  • Ethnicity: AMD is more common in white people.
  • Smoking: Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen reaching parts of your body, including your eyes, which leads to increased retinal damage over time.
  • Obesity: Carrying excess weight can increase inflammation that contributes to AMD.
  • High blood pressure: Like smoking, hypertension reduces the oxygen to your eyes.
  • Poor diet: A low-quality diet deprives eyes of the nutrients needed to maintain healthy vision.

Again, before a person can develop wet macular degeneration, they must have dry macular degeneration first. Having more risk factors is not a guarantee that dry macular degeneration will progress to wet macular degeneration, but it does increase the likelihood.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The diagnosis of both types of AMD begins with a comprehensive eye exam, which may include a visual field test, an Amsler grid test, a fluorescein angiography, or optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging test. These diagnostics will indicate the presence of macular degeneration and the stage it is in.

Currently there is no cure for age-related macular degeneration, but there are treatments and lifestyle changes that will slow its progression. For dry AMD, eating a diet high in antioxidants, quitting smoking, managing high blood pressure, and if recommended by your doctor, taking vitamin supplements containing lutein or zeaxanthin can benefit retinal health.

For wet AMD, injectable medications exist that can stop the growth of excess blood vessels and reduce leakage. Other treatments may include laser therapy and photodynamic therapy.

Further, a low vision doctor assists by evaluating your remaining vision and recommending specialized glasses, magnifiers, or other visual aids that can help restore functional vision to meet your lifestyle goals.

Next Steps

If you suffer from macular degeneration and are interested in learning more about the aids available to boost functional vision and get back to your daily activities, seek out a low vision doctor near you. If you are in the Bloomington, Clarksville, or Evansville, Indiana areas, Midwest Low Vision can help you take control of your macular degeneration and regain quality of life. Give us a call at 877-577-2040 or contact us on our website.

 

A woman with peripheral vision loss learns more about side vision awareness glasses

Peripheral Vision Loss: How Side Vision Awareness Glasses Can Help

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Peripheral vision loss, also known as tunnel vision, occurs when you can only see objects directly in front of you. It is a challenging condition that can affect daily activities like driving or even walking steadily. Fortunately, specialized eyewear called side vision awareness glasses, which I demonstrate in this video called “Side Vision Awareness Glasses for One-Sided Visual Field Loss,” provide a new way to help those affected by peripheral vision loss navigate the world more easily.

Understanding Peripheral Vision Loss

Peripheral vision refers to the ability to see objects outside your direct line of sight—it is what you can see to each side, or up and down, without moving your head. Individuals who lack side vision may describe the experience as seeing the world through a tube or tunnel.

Peripheral vision loss can range in severity. It can affect one or both eyes, and the condition may be temporary or permanent. Some experience what is known as hemianopia, which is the loss of vision in one half of the visual field. Other individuals, such as my patient in the above-mentioned video, may have quadrantopia, or a quarter loss of the visual field. The loss of side vision can, in some instances, be a gradual process, and individuals may not recognize the impairment until it affects their ability to complete daily tasks. In other instances, tunnel vision may happen suddenly as a result of a medical event.

Common Causes of Peripheral Vision Loss

When peripheral vision loss occurs suddenly, it is easier to recognize that there is a problem. When the vision loss happens over a longer period of time, symptoms are easier to overlook at first. It is important to promptly report any changes in vision to your optometrist, as an earlier intervention can promote better management of the issue.

Tunnel vision is not a condition in itself; rather, it is a symptom of an existing medical concern that causes damage in the eye or brain. Common causes of side vision loss include:

  • Glaucoma: This condition increases pressure within the eye, resulting in damage to the optic nerve.
  • Stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI): Such medical events can damage the parts of the brain that process visual information.
  • Retinitis pigmentosa: Retinitis pigmentosa is a genetic disorder that can gradually lead to tunnel vision.
  • Retinal detachment: A retinal detachment involves the separation of the retina from the back of the eye, causing a disruption in the visual field.

What Are Side Vision Awareness Glasses?

Side vision awareness glasses (SVAGs) are specialized eyewear that improve peripheral vision loss by utilizing prisms or mirrors to shift visual information from the sides into the central line of vision. As I demonstrate in the video, these glasses feature a line down the center of the lens, with the prism on the outer portion of the lens. This prism is like a “side-view mirror” which expands the wearer’s field of view and makes it easier to function in daily life.

Some individuals with peripheral vision loss utilize a Fresnel press-on, or “button-style,” lens to improve the field of vision. While a great option, side vision awareness glasses, in comparison, are considered more effective and user-friendly in that SVAGs provide greater contrast sensitivity, a wider viewing area, and a smoother transition between central vision and the assisted peripheral vision viewing area. My patients who have experienced both alternatives report greater clarity and confidence with the side vision awareness glasses.

How Side Vision Awareness Glasses are Fitted

Side vision awareness glasses are customized to each person’s vision loss needs. The fitting process begins with a comprehensive eye examination, followed by a trial of various lenses to determine the best fit. My “kit” includes Fresnel lenses, prisms “on a stick” in various powers, and even a pair of demo glasses to show patients what the eyewear will look like. After we settle on the best configuration for a patient’s needs, the glasses get custom-made to ensure a comfortable fit and maximum effectiveness. We have regular follow-up appointments to ensure the glasses continue to meet the wearer’s needs.

The Benefits of Side Vision Awareness Glasses in Daily Life

By expanding the field of vision, side vision awareness glasses provide many benefits, including:

  • Increased safety: Using SVAGs allows wearers to be more aware of their surroundings, reducing the risk of bumping into obstacles or other people.
  • Ease with daily tasks: Like my patient in the video, many people find they can return to activities they once enjoyed, but had become unable to do, such as reading, cooking, or using digital devices.
  • Improved awareness: Individuals are able to recognize people approaching from the sides, which makes social interactions more natural and comfortable.

In general, side vision awareness glasses boost confidence and independence, allowing wearers to navigate daily life with greater ease.

Are Side Vision Glasses Right for You?

If you deal with peripheral vision loss due to a stroke, traumatic brain injury, or other medical condition, side vision awareness glasses may be a good choice for you. The first step is to talk with your optometrist or consult a low vision doctor near you. If you are in the Bloomington, Clarksville, or Evansville, Indiana areas, Midwest Low Vision can help you regain confidence and independence with custom solutions for your vision needs. Give us a call at 877-577-2040 or contact us on our website.

Low vision doctor, Dr. Long, in front of eye chart discussing what is a low vision doctor

The Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Low Vision Doctor

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The Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Low Vision Doctor

Navigating life with low vision can be a challenge. The condition refers to reduced visual acuity or field of vision that can’t be corrected with traditional glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. People with low vision may struggle with everyday tasks, such as reading, driving, watching TV, or shopping, resulting in a decreased quality of life. Fortunately, with the help of a low vision specialist near you, it may be possible to regain some independence and get back to the activities you enjoy. Here are the top five questions you should ask your low vision doctor to make the most of your consultation and continued care.

What is a Low Vision Doctor?

A low vision doctor is typically an optometrist or ophthalmologist who has specialized training to help patients with visual impairments beyond what traditional glasses or contact lenses can correct. In my case, I studied in New York City under Dr. Bruce Rosenthal and Dr. Eleanor Faye at Lighthouse Guild, the leading organization dedicated to addressing and preventing vision loss. Additionally, I did a VA residency, and in 2006, a mentorship to learn how to do advanced low vision care. Our practice, Midwest Low Vision, has been helping patients in the Bloomington, Clarksville, and Evansville, Indiana, and surrounding areas since 2006.

Low vision doctors are trained in the optics, physics, and use of high-powered lenses and lens systems and have in-depth understanding of principles of magnification, field of view, depth, and focus. Such specialists carry knowledge of the multitude of low vision glasses, magnifiers, electronic, and non-optical aids available.

How Can a Low Vision Doctor Help?

A low vision doctor helps by understanding your unique vision challenges and recommending specialized solutions to address them. We focus on your functional vision—the specific tasks you can, or cannot, see to do. While some optometrists may prescribe tools like handheld magnifiers, stand magnifiers with lights, or even very strong glasses, a low vision doctor like myself, practicing advanced low vision care, will prescribe specialized eyewear for whatever activity is on your “wish list.” Some devices commonly include:

  • Telescopic glasses: Telescopic glasses are special lenses designed to magnify distant and near objects, used for activities like watching TV or recognizing faces, and even reading or computer.
  • Microscopic glasses: These lenses assist with close-up tasks, such as reading, doing hand work, or performing other fine-detail work.
  • Prismatic lenses: Prismatic glasses shift images to improve focus and alignment; these are often used for double vision or eye coordination issues.
  • E-scoop glasses: This special eyewear features combined optics that magnify and enhance contrast and reduce glare for individuals with conditions like macular degeneration. E-scoop glasses can even help with driving, when appropriate.
  • Magnifiers: These are handheld or stand-up devices that enlarge text or objects. Different from ordinary magnifying glasses, these devices contain LED lights and other advanced features.
  • Non-optical visual, tactile, auditory, and other aids: special lamps, lights, talking devices, and more can assist with daily functional tasks.

What Are the Top Conditions Treated by a Low Vision Doctor?

This is kind of a “trick question” because, while your low vision doctor has a deep understanding of the causes of low vision, our primary focus is on how we can improve your sight. That said, low vision doctors see patients with a wide variety of conditions, such as:

  • Wet and dry macular degeneration: These affect central vision and are at the top of the list of most common conditions. Since 1997, I have seen thousands of patients with macular degeneration.
  • Albinism and ocular albinism: These are genetic conditions causing reduced vision and light sensitivity.
  • Stroke: A stroke can impair visual processing and cause partial vision loss.
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI): TBI may result in visual field loss or difficulty processing images.
  • Optic neuropathy: Damage to the optic nerve can cause vision loss.
  • Double vision: This is a condition where two images of a single object appear.
  • Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that damages the optic nerve. Glaucoma that stems from an eye muscle or cranial nerve problem may benefit from low vision treatment.
  • Stargardt disease: This is an inherited retinal disease causing central vision loss similar to macular degeneration.
  • Diabetic retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy consists of diabetes-related damage to retinal blood vessels.
  • Eye injury: Trauma to the eye can reduce vision.
  • Retinitis: Inflammation of the retina can lead to vision loss.
  • Inoperable cataract: While most cataracts can be surgically corrected nowadays, inoperable cases may benefit from low vision care.
  • Fuch’s corneal dystrophy: This is a rare condition which causes corneal clouding.
  • Macular holes: A macular hole is a small break in the macula which causes blurry or distorted vision.
  • Histoplasmosis: This is a fungal infection affecting the retina.

When Should You See a Low Vision Doctor?

When you start having difficulties with everyday activities like reading, watching TV, playing cards, seeing digital devices like your phone, and if you have already consulted with your regular optometrist and exhausted all corrective glasses or contact lens treatment, that is the time to see a low vision doctor. Your optometrist or ophthalmologist may provide a referral. Or, you may need to take action on your own and give us a call. The earlier you come in, the better chance for simpler, more effective solutions.

What Should You Expect From a Low Vision Doctor Consultation?

First, you want to make sure to schedule 1-2 hours of your time. This is not a regular eye examination. A low vision evaluation focuses on helping you regain the ability to do the tasks you are no longer able to do. Together we create a “wish list,” which may include activities like driving, reading, seeing faces, reading music, seeing digital devices, watching theater, or viewing sporting events. After determining functional needs, we then start trying out some devices, allowing you a chance to see through special glasses or use other aids before we prescribe. After identifying the best visual ads for your needs, we place the order. After the devices are received, usually around 3-4 weeks, we meet again to properly fit and train you on the devices. Most importantly, the care is ongoing. Should your vision change, should something feel “off” with your visual aids, we are here for you and will follow up to make sure everything possible is being done.

Bonus: How Do I Find a Low Vision Doctor?

If you’d like to consult with a low vision specialist near you, you can visit “Find a Doctor” on the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS) website. Or, if you are located in the Midwest near Bloomington, Evansville, or Clarksville, Indiana, give us a call at 877-577-2040. We’re ready to help you get back to doing the activities you love.

Reading Telescopic Glasses Instructions

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Reading telescopic glasses are designed to enhance near or intermediate vision. Mobility is not practical with a reading telescopic pair of glasses and one should never try to walk while wearing them.
The telescopes are typically mounted in the bottom of the carrier lenses and angled down making it comfortable to read or work on tasks up close. They can be mounted on-center for computer use as well. Prescription focal lenses are mounted into the telescopes to change the focus to the desired reading/working distance. Some of the tasks and activities patients have used their reading telescopic glasses for include:
• Reading
• Sewing and other Hand-work
• Computer
• Music
• Word and Jigsaw Puzzles
• Electronic Devices, such as Cell Phones and Tablets

Technical Information:
Reading telescopic glasses are comprised of the following optical properties:
1. Telescopes are constructed of glass lenses mounted in a plastic housing.
2. Strengths available: 1.7x and 2.2x.
3. Special lens “caps” can be added to change the focal length for alternative working distances.
4. Prescription capability in a variety of options, such as single vision, astigmatism, and prism.
5. Scratch-resistant hard coating and anti-reflective treatment.
When these optical properties are combined into reading telescopic glasses, a patient will be able to read and do other near or intermediate work they are unable to do with their regular glasses.

Basic Instructions for Reading Telescopic Glasses:
1. Objects will look bigger, closer, and easier to see through the telescopes.
2. Lighting is important when using your telescopic glasses. Dr. Long recommends a goose-neck style lamp with the light directed at your target from a close distance.
3. With your strength of magnification, you will need to hold your reading materials at the specified distance. To set the correct distance while getting used to the glasses you need to pull your materials up to your nose and then pull them away from your face until they become clear through the telescope.
4. DO NOT WALK in your reading telescopic glasses because straight edges and flat surfaces may appear curved through the telescope and your depth perception may be changed.
5. There may be some adjustment time getting used to viewing and seeing through a smaller area than you are used to. Dr. Long recommends practicing five minutes, five times a date for the first week.
6. Possible side effects are headache, nausea, and dizziness. These symptoms are temporary. Be sure to take a break from wearing them if you experience any of these symptoms.

CLEANING YOUR TELESCOPIC GLASSES
• DO NOT expose to large amounts of liquid.
• DO NOT place under running water.
• DO NOT immerse in water or lens cleaner.
• DO NOT spray eyeglass cleaner directly onto the glasses.
The air space between the front and back lens can trap liquids and impair performance.
Spray eyeglass cleaner onto one end of a cleaning cloth until damp then gently wipe the glasses clean. Polish clean lenses with the dry end of the cloth.

To contact us please call 877-577-2040 or visit our website, www.midwestlowvision.com. –Thank you, Dr. Jarrod Long

The Important Connection Between Lighting in Your Home and the Work Our Low Vision Doctor Plays

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Did you know lighting in the home is critical for even daily tasks? It’s even more so for those with vision loss. Recent findings reveal that better home lighting can significantly improve the physical activity levels of older adults with visual impairments. According to a study published in JAMA Ophthalmology, enhanced home lighting is linked to increased mobility and more active daily routines.

This study, led by researchers from the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins University, involved 153 older adults who wore activity trackers for a week. The results indicated that improved lighting conditions were associated with a higher number of daily steps and faster walking speeds. This suggests that good lighting can play a crucial role in helping individuals with visual impairments stay active and independent.

Our Low Vision Doctor: Enhancing Your Daily Living

Our low vision doctor understands the profound impact that proper home lighting can have on your daily life. While our primary focus is on prescribing customized low vision glasses and devices, we also take the time to discuss the importance of optimizing your home lighting to improve the function of the prescriptions. From simple magnifiers to advanced wearable assistive devices, low vision devices that we provide are most effective when complemented by a well-lit environment.

Committed to Your Independence

As a proud member of the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS), our doctor is dedicated to promoting life after vision loss. We believe in a comprehensive approach to low vision care, one that includes not only the best optical devices but also practical advice on enhancing your living spaces. Proper lighting can significantly impact your ability to move around safely and engage in daily activities, contributing to a more active and independent lifestyle.

Call Us for a Low Vision Consultation

Are you or a loved one struggling with vision loss? Call us for a low vision consultation at 877-577-2040. Our low vision doctor and low vision technician will work with you to find low vision glasses and devices and offer personalized advice on improving your home lighting. By addressing both your visual needs and your home environment, we aim to enhance your mobility and overall quality of life. Take the first step towards a more independent and active life today.

Low Vision Telescopic Glasses and Video Magnifier Dispensing for Macular Degeneration

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Here is a case study including a dispensing visit with Holly, our lead low vision technician. Mr. B is 50 years old and was referred by his ophthalmologist who is giving him anti-VEGF injections in each eye for wet macular degeneration. His low vision evaluation took place recently at our satellite office in Clarksville, Indiana (just across the river from Louisville) and the dispensing visit took place at our main office in Bloomington, Indiana.
With best glasses correction, Mr. B sees 20/300 in the right eye and 20/50 in the left eye. His goals are driving, reading, seeing his laptop computer, and overhead projections at work. I prescribed Ocutech Sport II bioptics for driving and seeing overheads, reading telescopic glasses for hands-free reading and using his laptop computer, and an Explore 12 portable video magnifier.

Additionally, we ordered an IRD (inherited retinal disease) genetic test kit at no additional charge to Mr. B and prescribed an evaluation with a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist for him to obtain nighttime driving privileges. Of note, the telescopic glasses and video magnifier Holly dispensed to Mr. B are exactly the things she uses on a daily basis to help her function with Stargardt disease. So, she truly knows how to use these glasses and devices!

The Discussion

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What a patient is always thinking, but sometimes only shares when the low vision doctor leaves the room.
Yes, you need different pairs for different goals.
Yes, they look funny.
Yes, they are complicated.
Yes, they are more expensive than regular glasses.
…and Yes, they are heavier too.
But, we agree, reading and TV are pretty important when you live alone.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Binasal Occlusion (BNO)

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Binasal occlusion is a method of partially, or fully, blocking the visual field toward the nose in each eye. It can be effective for patients who have had a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and now suffer from visual motion sensitivity and/or other conditions related to Post Trauma Vision Syndrome. This patient’s “trauma” was due to brain surgery for cancer. How and why it helps these patients, and some with other related conditions, is not fully understood. But, a provider of advanced low vision services can evaluate and help symptomatic TBI patients. Contact us at Midwest Low Vision today!

Who is Midwest Low Vision?

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W. Jarrod Long, OD, FIALVS

Dr. Jarrod Long is the owner and founder of Midwest Low Vision. He has been serving patients since 1997. In addition to his role at our practice, Dr. Long has been a Fellow in the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists since 2006. He is currently a candidate for Fellowship in the American Academy of Optometry and will pursue the distinguished Low Vision Diplomate Status.

Before establishing our practice, Dr. Long completed a one-year Ocular Disease Residency at the SUNY Optometry-affiliated, FDR VA Hospital in Montrose, New York. He also earned a Comprehensive Clinical Low Vision Care Certification from The Lighthouse Incorporated in New York, New York, in 1997. From 1997 to 2000, he was part-time Clinical Faculty and a Low Vision Case Consultant at the Indiana University School of Optometry.

Holly Hart, ABOC

Holly Hart, our Lead Low Vision Technician, joined our team in 2021. She is American Board of Opticianry Certified since 2022. Holly brings a unique perspective to our team as she is a low vision patient herself, diagnosed with Stargardt Macular Degeneration. This personal experience gives her a deep understanding of the challenges our patients face, making her an invaluable member of our team.

Prior to joining us, from 2006 to 2021, Holly held various roles in eye care offices, ranging from technician to leadership and management positions. She is also an Indiana-licensed Bioptic Telescopic Driver, as well as a Bioptic Glasses Trainer. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Holly is an active volunteer with the Foundation Fighting Blindness.

Casey Beckman, ABOC

Casey Beckman is our Office Manager at Long Family Eye Care and Midwest Low Vision, a position she has held since 2021. Casey graduated from the IU School of Optometry in 2008, where she served as Class President. She has been American Board of Opticianry Certified since 2008.

Before assuming her current role as Office Manager, Casey was our Lead Low Vision Technician from 2008 to 2021. Her experience, skills, and dedication to patient care make her an essential part of our team.

Our team at Midwest Low Vision is passionate about helping our patients achieve the best possible vision and quality of life. With our combined expertise and commitment, we are confident in our ability to provide exceptional care to all our patients.

We specialize in providing comprehensive and personalized care for patients with unmet functional vision needs. We understand the challenges that come with low vision conditions and strive to provide solutions that improve our patients’ quality of life. With extensive experience and a diverse selection of prescription low vision aids, we are equipped to meet the vision demands created by wide range of eye conditions.

Why Refer to Midwest Low Vision?

What distinguishes us is not just our depth of experience and education, but also our personalized, goal-oriented approach to patient care and education. We are committed to providing the time and attention necessary to address each patient’s individual vision needs.

What is the Process?

The Referral

The first step in our patient care process is referral. As a healthcare provider, you can identify patients with unmet vision needs and educate them about the options available at Midwest Low Vision. This step involves sharing office notes and patient contact information with us.

The Call

Upon receiving a referral, we will contact the patient directly. This call serves to gather additional information, discuss the patient’s needs, and schedule an appointment. If for any reason an appointment is not scheduled, we will inform your office and provide an explanation.

The Evaluation

The evaluation is an in-depth process that includes a detailed history, a “wish list” of the patient’s vision goals, measurements, expectations, trials, tests, and education. Each patient will receive a personalized care plan based on their unique vision goals. After the evaluation, we send you a summarized report of our prescriptions and recommendations to keep you updated on the patient’s progress.

The Dispense

The final step in our process is the dispensing of the prescription low vision aids. We ensure the fit, adjust as necessary, educate the patient on proper use, and confirm that the patient’s goals and expectations are met. We encourage our patients to, not only follow-up with us as needed, but to follow-up with their referring healthcare provider as scheduled to ensure continuity of care.

For referrals or inquiries, call us at 877-577-2040, fax us at 812-332-5092, or email our lead low vision technician, Holly, at holly@midwestlowvision.com.

Empower your patients and enhance your practice by partnering with Midwest Low Vision. Together, we can provide access to life-changing low vision care!