Helpful Tips and Local Resources to Help Seniors With Low Vision Navigate Life

Low vision is defined as visual impairments that are not able to be corrected through surgery, prescription medication, glasses, or contact lenses. It is not the same as needing reading glasses or bifocals to participate in daily activities. Low vision greatly interferes with daily life. Seniors with low vision are at risk for social isolation as their eyesight forces them to withdraw from the outside world. They also have a greater risk for falls and are more likely to become less active as their eyesight declines.

February is National Low Vision Awareness Month. Visiting Angels Richmond understands the challenges many seniors face as they age. These challenges only become more difficult when low vision is added to the equation. We want to help seniors with low vision thrive in the community. Below are a few helpful tips to help seniors with low vision and some local resources that can offer more assistance. 

Helpful Tips

• Use contrast to distinguish items and elevation. A brown rug on hardwood floors is more challenging to spot than a brightly colored rug. Similarly, it can be difficult for someone with low vision to see the boundaries of a brown end table that is placed on dark floors.
  
  

• Ensure rooms and hallways are adequately lit. Overhead lighting is best, as it eliminates shadows and helps keep rooms evenly lit. Lamps with shades can help reduce glare. Use nightlights throughout the home to reduce the risk of falls during the night.
  
  

• Purchase assistive technology or devices to help with everyday tasks. Magnifying glasses, amplifiers, audiobooks, and smartphones can enhance the life of a senior with low vision. There are even apps available to help seniors with low vision identify products in the store, recognize money, and discern between colors of clothing.
  
  

• Make plans for the future. Low vision is often a permanent condition that cannot be cured. Seniors and their families need to think through what life looks like as their eyesight declines. Consider how you can get around in your community once you can no longer drive. Ask your family about their availability to assist you as you need more help with home tasks. Ensure your legal documents are updated and put in a secure location. Bookmark the following resources available in the community that assist seniors with low vision. 

Local Resources for Seniors With Low Vision 

Department of the Blind and Vision Impaired 

The DBVI offers numerous services and resources for seniors with low vision, including a community-based full-service vision rehabilitation process.

Senior Navigator 

Another great tool is the Senior Navigator, a VirginiaNavigator website. Seniors and their families can find a wealth of local resources and support, including programs and aids for seniors with low vision.

MEDARVA Low Vision Center

MEDARVA is a not-for-profit healthcare organization. The MEDARVA Low Vision Center is a part of their healthcare organization. The team there specializes in helping patients with low vision improve their quality of life. They provide several services, including a home assessment to help seniors determine their specific low vision needs. 

Transportation 

CARE services offer seniors with disabilities curb-to-curb transportation. Seniors over the age of 80 are eligible for the ADA Paratransit service. CARE services provide additional assistance to passengers who need help beyond the curb. Visit their website to learn more.

Technology 

To learn more about low-vision products and technology, check out VATS (Virginia Assistive Technology System). Their mission is to ensure that all Virginians receive appropriate and affordable assistive technologies to help them participate in daily life. 

Assistance at Home 

Visiting Angels Richmond is here to help seniors with low vision manage their everyday challenges. We provide personalized at-home care for seniors that makes aging in place possible. We understand that every senior is a unique individual with their wants and needs. Since every older adult is different we offer personalized senior care services tailored to your needs. Our care plans are not set in stone and can be altered whenever needed. Visiting Angels Richmond has been offering high-quality home care services to seniors in Richmond and surrounding areas for years. To learn more, please contact us today by calling 804-353-0000.