Minimising the impact of visual impairment

• Published in: BMJ Vol. 318; no. 7197; p. 1504
• Main Author: Margrain, Tom H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London British Medical Journal Publishing Group 05.06.1999; BMJ Publishing Group LTD; BMJ Publishing Group
• Edition: International edition
• Subjects: Age; Blindness; Diabetes; Editorials; Eyes & eyesight; Handicapped assistance devices; Medical equipment; Medical screening; Older people; Visual impairment; United Kingdom > UK
• ISSN: 0959-8138; 0959-8146; 1468-5833
• DOI: 10.1136/bmj.318.7197.1504

Furthermore, although continuing advances in the management of conditions such as glaucoma and diabetes are likely to reduce the degree of visual impairment associated with these conditions, the overall number of people with impaired sight may not diminish because the benefits of improved management are likely to be offset by the general trend toward increased life expectancy. The most effective way to reduce the degree of handicap associated with visual impairment is by providing low vision aids as part of a comprehensive low vision service. 1 When dispensed appropriately these simple magnifying devices enhance residual vision and often permit people with impaired sight to perform daily tasks such as reading. The improvement in reading performance addresses the primary complaint of people with age related maculopathy, and it is perhaps for this reason that more than 80% of people report a benefit from attending low vision clinics. 6 Other reasons why people with impaired vision do not benefit from a low vision assessment include the fact that some may fail to recognise their degree of visual impairment or fear treatment, the stigma of blindness, and differences in ophthalmological referral criteria.