Visual aids

If you experience visual problems while reading then start by going to the optician and check if you have the correct glasses.
When you are wearing the correct glasses, make sure you have a proper reading light from a reading lamp that directly sheds light onto what you need to read without the light blinding you.
If light alone isn't enough for you to read all the lowercase letters, you may need magnification.
There are various forms of magnification.
This includes magnifying lamps. It could be magnifying glasses that sit on the text.
Or hand magnifiers with or without lights.
Many prefer a large magnifying glass with powerful magnifying abilities but unfortunately, large magnification magnifies very little while small magnification magnifies a lot.
And no magnification works properly without a good reading light Light and magnification go together.
If you need a lot of magnification to read your newspaper or books you might be better off with electronic magnification.
This can be a handheld solution or a desktop reading screen.
Perhaps e-books or audio books are a good alternative to reading a physical book.
Light isn't just important when it comes to reading.
The right home lighting is important for everyone, especially if you are older.
Fortunately, there are some excellent lamps and bulbs on the market.
If your vision is sufficiently impaired, you might be able to get help from a low vision service.
To get help from a low vision service and get the right visual aids.
you should have reduced vision caused by chronic eye disease.
An important first step is therefore to be seen by an ophthalmologist.
You can get advice and guidance from a low vision specialist test visual aids and receive special training.
It means that despite your visual disability, you can still maintain your quality of life, your independence, and participate fully in society.
You do not need a referral to contact a low vision service.
You can do it yourself, or your relatives, ophthalmologist and optician can do it for you.
The low vision specialist will obtain your eye information from the eye doctor, to make sure you get the right help.
It is often worth receiving training to perform your daily activities in a different way than you are used to.
This falls under special training.
A blind person is actually able to cook from scratch without the use of a single visual aid, but by means of special techniques.
Because with a visual impairment, normal activities can become difficult.
For example cooking, cleaning, shopping, using a phone and computer even just checking the time.
Visual aids combined with the right training can help you care for yourself again.
Examples include a talking clock, flashes with light or a player for audio books.
The low vision specialist will help you choose the right tools and teach you how to use them effectively.
If you struggle to fare in traffic you can get training from a mobility instructor.
Training may include a long white cane, and a clear indication of your impaired vision.
With the right combination of visual aids and special training a visually impaired person can lead a full and independent life.
A low vision specialist will help you find the best solution.
If you're a child, young, adult or older with a visual disability and need advice and guidance then contact your local low vision service.