Low Vision Aids
Ever since Ted Watts established the practice in 1958, we have maintained close links with local hospitals. Sara Porter runs NHS Low Vision Clinics at Orsett Hospital and Southend Hospital.
What is Low Vision?
Surveys have consistently shown that most people do not know what low vision is.
Low vision is often described as a visual impairment that causes difficulty in seeing despite the use of spectacles or contact lenses. Its presence may be noticed only when someone is unable to see well enough to do the things they used to be able to do.
Low vision is usually considered to be eyesight that cannot be corrected to the normal standard (20/20 or 6/6) with spectacles or contact lenses. It is often referred to as impaired vision, partial sight, or sight impaired. This can mean that parts of vision are distorted or missing. A person with low vision has an untreatable impairment of visual function that restricts normal activity.
The problem of low vision may be overcome by using lenses that make objects appear larger than they really are, using the principle of enlargement.
Clinic Referrals
Sara Porter runs NHS Low Vision Clinics at:
- Orsett Hospital
- Southend Hospital
Please ring the practice for referral information. Private patients are seen at the Shenfield practice via self-referral.
What is a Low Vision Assessment?
Anyone can buy a magnifier, but not everyone can use one effectively.
Family and friends often buy them with the best of intentions, but generally do not fully understand the eye condition or its signs and symptoms. Two patients can have the same eye condition and the same standard of vision, yet need different types of magnifiers depending on their personal needs. The assessment looks at all the visual demands of the patient.
At Edward Watts, we work very closely with our ophthalmic colleagues and have direct links with the Rehabilitation Officers in the local Sensory Teams to provide the best support for you.
Low Vision Aids We Supply
Edward Watts Opticians can supply virtually any low vision aid, from basic hand magnifiers to spectacle-mounted aids to auto-focusing telescopes. We also stock a range of electronic aids. As an independent optician, we have the benefit of not being tied to any single manufacturer.
For more specialist aids including the Ocutech bi-optic telescope and ptosis props, see our specialist services page.
- Hand-held magnifiers
- Stand magnifiers
- Illuminated magnifiers
- Spectacle-mounted aids
- Auto-focusing telescopes
- Electronic magnification aids
Sight is Precious
Sight is one of our most precious senses. Worldwide, there are around 45 million blind people. The main causes are corneal scarring, cataract, glaucoma, and retinopathy.
Children can inherit conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa, macular dystrophies, and Leber's optic atrophy. Older children can lose vision through diabetes. Low vision aids given to children from around three years of age can make a significant difference. Explaining how much fun they can be with books and games helps children engage with them positively.
Regular visits to the optician are important as a child's ability develops.
Management: The most effective method of managing low vision is magnification. Vision may seem blurry or distorted, but magnifying the image can enable the object to be seen more clearly.
Book a Low Vision Assessment
Contact us to arrange a private low vision assessment at our Shenfield practice, or ask about NHS clinic referrals.