Increasing Independence for Those with Low Vision
posted on January 25, 2012
Approximately 25% of people 75 years or older suffer from a condition known as low vision. Low vision can be caused by age-related eye changes such as reduced contrast sensitivity or an increased sensitivity to glare. The most common cause of low vision is the presence of age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy. Although vision loss may be permanent in many circumstances, skilled professionals such as Occupational Therapists can teach individuals with vision loss strategies to compensate for low vision, thus maximizing participation and independence in their daily tasks.
Most people desire to live independently in their own home as they age. Family members may have concerns about their loved one’s ability to live alone when he or she experiences vision loss. An Occupational Therapist can help by evaluating the home and making simple changes in an environment to assist the individual with low vision better manage daily tasks. Simple adaptations and strategies that an Occupation Therapist may use for people living at home with vision loss include: correct use of lighting, contrast, and augmenting lost vision with alternative sensory input.
Lighting is one of the most effective changes one can make to their homes and it is simple. Occupational Therapists ensure that available lighting is optimal for task performance. Lighting should evenly illuminate the environment or tasks being completed. The Occupational Therapist checks for shadows caused by light, as this can be visually confusing for a person with vision loss. When adding additional lighting, the Occupational Therapist ensures that the modification does not increase the presence of glare (e.g. light reflecting off of a shiny surface).
Occupational Therapists may use contrast as another simple, yet effective, modification to the home, allowing the individual to easily locate objects. When enhancing contrast, the Occupational Therapist places dark objects against lighter backgrounds, or vice versa. Examples of using contrast within the home would include the placement of bathing items in contrasting colored containers or the use of a dark place mat under light-colored plates to improve visibility.
People with low vision may instinctively rely on information that is received through hands and feet as their vision decreases. Occupational Therapists can help train those with vision loss how to enhance to attention this information and place tactile cues to promote safety and independence. One technique utilized by HCR Home Care Occupational Therapist, Jen Thompson, is the placement of velcro at the top and bottom of the stair rail, allowing those with vision loss to feel when they have reached the last step. This simple strategy may prevent an injury related to a fall within the home.
Making a home safer for those with vision loss does not need to be complicated or costly. Occupational Therapists have many useful adaptations and recommendations that can increase independence for those living with low vision. For more information, please call HCR Home Care and ask about our Low Vision program or submit a request for information here.
