Low Vision Services for Glaucoma

Erin Kenny, OD ‘15, Resident ‘16, FAAO, chief of the William Feinbloom Vision Rehabilitation Center, shares five low vision tips that individuals with glaucoma can use to manage the disease.

Lighting

Often, individuals who have glaucoma have contrast sensitivity issues. Specialists at the Feinbloom Center can explore different lighting options and help individuals determine the best lighting setup for them. One option is moving the light closer and/or changing the warmth of the light.

Cell Phone Apps

Specialists at the Feinbloom Center can explore different cell phone apps, as some patients who have glaucoma do better with auditory aides. The Seeing AI app can read out or do text-to-speech options for patients.

Refer to Another Rehabilitation Specialist

Orientation and mobility specialists can help individuals who have glaucoma navigate confidently in their environment. Other specialists include occupational therapists, certified low vision therapists, and vision rehabilitation therapists. 

Glare or Bright Lights

To help individuals with glaucoma who have issues with glare or bright lights, the Feinbloom Center recommends a tint or a sun lens evaluation, where the patient can try different colors and transmissions and pick the best one for them to make sure they're comfortable in any environment. 

Magnification or Minification

Depending on how glaucoma is affecting a patient’s vision, magnification or minification may be recommended. Magnification may be recommended for patients when central vision is affected, while minification may be recommended for patients when peripheral or side vision is impacted.

If you are a family member have glaucoma and are interested in low vision services, call The Eye Institute at 215.276.6111 to work with a specialist today.