Low Vision Therapy Experts

Female doctor examining senior patient vision

Low vision is a kind of visual impairment that cannot be eased by wearing conventional eyeglasses or contact lenses, characterized as having vision loss that interferes with day-to-day activities. In terms of visual acuity, someone with low vision will have 20/70 vision or poorer in their better-seeing eye.

Some of the common causes of low vision include: macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinitis pigmentosa, amblyopia, retinopathy of prematurity (in premature babies), retinal detachment, cataracts, glaucoma, and traumatic brain injury.

According to the National Eye Institute, 2.9 million people in the United States had low vision in 2010. By 2030, this number will jump to 5 million, and to 8.9 million by 2050.

Low Vision Eye Care Services

At Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry, we accept both patients that have been referred by other eye doctors and those that are self-referring. During a low vision eye exam in Crystal City, Alexandria or Falls Church, we will assess vision impairment level and how effectively a patient’s remaining vision is being utilized. We have multiple low vision specialists.

Based on our findings, we may prescribe low vision devices such as high-power glasses, prisms, telescopes, and magnifiers, as well as the use of special reading lamps or filters. We can also provide counseling and training to improve vision for independent living and safety. We can also connect you to other specialists, support groups, and state or federal assistance programs.

For referred patients, a complete report of our evaluation will be provided to you. It will include recommendations that your eye doctor can take into consideration.

What is Low Vision?

Contact Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry Today to Learn More

To get started on low vision therapy, just give us a call at one of our locations or use our online appointment request form here on our website. We are accepting new patients at all locations and walk-ins are welcome. On the day of your appointment, please don’t forget to bring any low vision devices you might be using alongside a filled-out copy of our low vision new patient questionnaire. Referred patients are also advised to have their most recent examination findings ready.