What is Low Vision? - top of page

A person is considered to have low vision when ordinary eyeglasses, contact lenses, and surgical procedures cannot provide adequate vision to perform everyday activities.

This condition should not be confused with blindness. People with low vision still have useful vision which can often be improved with specialized training and devices.

What Causes Low Vision? - top of page

Low vision can result from a variety of diseases and injuries including diabetes, glaucoma, cataract, and age-related macular degeneration.

Low vision can affect people of all ages.

How Does Low Vision Affect People's Lives? - top of page

People with low vision experience physical, economic, and psychological changes that diminish their quality of life.

Without assistance and training, patients may have difficulty using low vision devices and completing necessary daily living tasks such as:

• Reading mail labels, books and newspapers
• Managing finances
• Managing Medications
• Personal care and grooming
• Using home appliances and home maintenance
• Crafts and handiwork
• Navigating stairs, steps, and curbs

Will a Low Vision Evaluation Help Me? - top of page

The purpose of a low vision exam is to identify specific problems that you are having. The solutions may range from simple glasses to state of the art electronic devices.

Our goal is to maximize your remaining vision and help you regain your independence.

What Low Vision Devices Are Available? - top of page

There are a number of low vision devices available today. Some examples include high powered reading glasses, optical magnifiers, and video magnifiers for reading and writing. Telescopic spectacles can be prescribed for TV viewing and other distance activities.

We also provide training in the proper use of low vision devices and their applications in everyday activities.

Does Insurance Cover Low Vision Evaluations? - top of page

Medicare and Most insurance cover a low vision examination and training.

Low vision devices are purchased by the patient.

Meet the Low Vision Doctor - top of page

Dr. Braudway is a board certified optometric physician who specializes in low vision rehabilitation.

She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Houston, College of Optometry and served a clinical fellowship in Low Vision Rehabilitation at the Johns Hopkins University, Wilmer Eye Institute in Baltimore, Maryland.

Dr. Braudway is a fellow of the American Academy of Optometrists and a member of the American Optometric Association. She also serves on the low vision panel for the Division of Blind Services and the Florida Committee on low vision.