Glare can also be a significant problem for those using computers, as well as those who play golf, sail, or fly airplanes. Fortunately, there are many alternatives that may reduce glare such as special anti-reflective coatings for lenses, Polaroid lenses, glare reduction lenses, transition lenses, etc. For persons with macular degeneration, special lenses that block blue light may be helpful. Computer glasses to help you focus on the screen and reduce glare are also available. The doctor will be happy to discuss which options may work best for you.

For those who wear contact lenses and are very light sensitive, the doctor may offer the option of custom designed lenses.

If you have problems with glare while driving at night you should also be aware that alcohol relaxes the eye muscles causing, among other things, increased glare sensitivity and increased glare recovery time.
All of us should be aware that ultraviolet radiation can damage the eyes, as well as the skin. Thus non-prescription sunglasses providing the maximum UVA and UVB protection are also available for those not requiring special lenses. Padula Institute of Vision provides a number of resources for many vision related impairments, including glare Sensitivity (Photophobia)from age, concussion, brain injury, stroke and other sources.

Contact the Padula Institute of Vision to discuss what resources and treatments are available for your vision related needs.

We provide vision services. Vision services we provide are vision services for contact lens vision services elderly vision services vision therapy vision services low vision vision services diagnostic vision services low vision services photophobia vision services vision services for learning disabilities.
A vision specialist can diagnose vision problems due to accident or illness. A vision specialist works with low vision, vision therapy specialists, and cataracts, glare sensitivity and other vision related impairments.

Given the increasing incidence and prevalence of persons with severe but partial vision impairment, it is important to understand low vision services. When medical or surgical treatment cannot provide any further improvement, or when medical or surgical treatment must be delayed, a low vision evaluation is recommended.

Low vision services are multidisciplinary and utilize special vision examination techniques and optical aids to improve the individual’s vision, and thereby rehabilitate functional abilities and skills. The primary objective of low vision services is to increase independence.

The low vision examination is a specialized form of vision analysis which the doctor begins by analyzing functional abilities the moment the person walks into the office. Functional assessment is important because it allows the low vision specialist to better evaluate the individual’s abilities and needs, the extent to which the sight loss may be interfering with vision functioning, the areas with which testing should begin, and, in general, the type(s) of optical aids that may help the person meet his or her needs. This continued behavioral analysis, in conjunction with assessment of function, adds meaning to the measurements of sight that will be made during the examination. An in-depth history is taken, and social workers, educators, and other professionals may need to be consulted to further assess needs and abilities.

The low vision examination differs from routine eye examinations in that special methods of testing must be used to determine refractive status, acuities (near and far), visual field, and eye health in order to analyze areas of best residual vision so that the specific types of optical aids providing the most assistance can be recommended. Procedures are often adapted to elicit the vision that the patient retains. On the basis of this analysis and the above described behavioral observations and functional analysis, special lens and optical aids of various types are prescribed to improve acuity levels.

Types of Contact Lens Options

• Macular Degeneration
• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• Retinitis Pigmentosa
• Other conditions of vision impairment

There are literally thousands of types and powers of optical aids from simple magnifiers to more sophisticated spectacle mounted telescopes for seeing at distance, microscopes mounted in glasses for reading, and electronic equipment such as closed circuit televisions that can magnify print up to 100 times, often enabling a person with low vision to read again. Frequently, blind spots or visual field losses will interfere with balance and posture. When these vision problems occur special enhanced field prisms can be prescribed to improve the person’s visual field awareness on the affected side. Appropriate training in the use of optical aids as well as follow-up services will be recommended based on individual needs.

Optical aids and special spectacle lenses improve visual acuity, thereby directly improving sight. However, improvement of performance and function depends upon how the patient utilizes his enhanced sight. Optometric therapy programs may be recommended based on a patient’s needs, in order to optimize the ability to use the improved visual acuity. When recommended, they will be provided in our office.

Summary

Low vision services are a means to redevelop effective visual functioning. The purpose of the service is to increase independence. Please contact us at the Padula Institute of Vision if you would like to schedule a low vision evaluation.