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Mez Mer Eyes

707 N. Citrus Ave

Crystal River, FL 34428 US

352-795-2020

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  • Diagnosing and Using Vision Technology to Help Low Vision

Diagnosing and Using Vision Technology to Help Low Vision

  • Created in Newsletters

Woman squinting while reading the newspaper

What is Low Vision?

Low vision affects close to 3 million Americans, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. You may have low vision if you have vision loss that can't be improved with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. Fortunately, a variety of aids and devices can help you make the most of your usable vision.

What Causes Low Vision?

Low vision can be caused by:

  • Eye Diseases: Macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy can cause loss of vision if treatments aren't successful.
  • Genetics: You may have inherited an eye disease that affects your vision, such as retinitis pigmentosa, Leber congenital amaurosis, or optic atrophy.
  • Injuries: Injuries to your eyes or brain may also be responsible for low vision.
  • Retinal Detachment: If your retina separates from the back of your eye and can't be reattached, you may experience permanent vision loss. The retina is a layer of light-sensing cells at the back of the eye that sends light rays to the brain for processing. You may notice a blank spot in your field of vision at the spot where the detachment occurred.
  • Prematurity: If you were born too early, you may suffer from retinopathy of prematurity, a condition that causes abnormal blood vessels to grow in your retinas.

How Do I Know If I Have Low Vision?

Your optometrist will determine if you have low vision after performing a few tests. Although your ability to see the letters and numbers on an eye chart will be part of the exam, he or she will also consider the way your vision problem affects your life.

Low vision may make it difficult to do many things you used to take for granted. Due to your vision problems, you may have trouble reading, using a computer, watching TV, using machinery, driving, shopping, seeing the board at school, and recognizing friends and family members.

    The cause of your vision problem determines the type of symptoms you'll experience. Vision loss may affect your central or side vision, or alter your depth perception or ability to spot differences in colors. You can have low vision or in one or both eyes.

    What Type of Help Is Available?

    Low vision doesn't have to completely change your life. Thanks to innovative vision technology, you can learn new ways to carry out your daily tasks. Your optometrist may recommend one or more of these technologies, devices, or aids:

    • Magnifiers. Whether they're attached to a pair of glasses or held in your hand, magnifiers can make reading, sewing, and other tasks easier.
    • Screen Readers. Special software converts the words on the computer screen to spoken language, allowing you to "read" a computer screen even if you have severe low vision.
    • Telescopes. Telescopes can also be handheld or mounted on eyeglass frames. They're helpful for seeing objects in the distance or watching a TV or movie screen. Some telescopes can even help you drive.
    • Book Alternatives. If you have trouble reading the words in a book, selecting books and magazines that offer large print versions may offer a simple solution. Audiobooks are another option, as are electronic books. When you read an electronic book in an eReader, you can select the font size, background, and text color.
    • Apps. There's an app for almost everything these days, including low vision issues. You can find apps that describe the icons on your Apple phone or match you with volunteers who help you read the directions on a package by using the camera on your phone.
    • Everyday Items: Alarm clocks, telephones, watches, needle threaders, calculators, thermometers, timers, TV remotes, and other products are available in large print versions.

    Do you need help dealing with low vision problems? Contact our office to schedule a convenient appointment.

    Sources:

    American Academy of Ophthalmology: Eye Health Statistics

    American Academy of Ophthalmology: Low Vision Assistive Devices, 2/25/19

    National Eye Institute: Low Vision

    All About Vision: Low Vision Aids for Computer Users: 12/19

    • Eyeglasses
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    • Protecting Your Eyes
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    • Glasses
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    • Common Eye Conditions
      • Vision Impairment
      • Eye Lids
      • Changes in Appearance
      • Injury & Irritation
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      • Cognitive and Acquired
    • Vision Problems
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    • Eye Diseases
    • A Child's Vision
    • What is Vision Therapy
    • Vision Therapy Programs
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    • "I’ve been wanting to find an eye doctor in the area since I moved here almost 2 years ago and I am so happy with Dr. Chavez. First off, I called to make an appointment thinking it wouldn’t be until later next week but they had a spot open for me today. Dr. Chavez was so nice and answered all of my questions. The two girls at the front desk, Meriah and Kourtney, I believe, we’re also the nicest and helped me pick out my first pair of glasses. I highly recommend MezMerEyes if you’re looking for a new eye doctor."
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    • "Welcoming and patient staff...I suffered with poor vision for over a year due to an incorrect RX by another local optometrist.. Dr. Chavez was very professional and understanding, what a welcome breath of fresh air. I just can't stop talking about how pleased I am with my correct contacts; best visit I've had at optometrist's office in over 5 years.... Exceptional pleasant experience...I highly recommend MezMerEyes for anyone needing vision care. Oh if you need glasses/frames, they have a ton (no exaggerating) unique, one of kind..."
      Theresia S.
    • "I had a great experience with Mez Mer Eyes. Hilda helped me while I in the store. She was so friendly and accommodating. I was in town for the day and forgot my contacts at home but had my prescription. They got me right in and hooked me up with some contacts so I could enjoy a day on the water. Their store is very clean and they have a huge selection of frames for glasses and sunglasses. I highly recommend giving this place your business. Thank you Hilda and Mez Mer Eyes for saving my mini-vacation!"
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