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Do you have ever days when you think you've mis-read a road sign? You are looking at the digital clock next to the bed and it's a little out of focus? Perhaps you walked right by a familiar face having not recognised them?
We all have days like this, but if you are finding that events such as these are taking place more frequently, you may be experiencing Low Vision.
Basically, low vision is a failure in your sight that effects every day tasks. You might not be able to finish reading a book, or see the goods on shelves well enough while out shopping. If glasses, prescriptive medicines or surgery cannot assist a person with low vision ( and it is feasible that it cannot be corrected), individuals with low vision still have greatly reduced vision even when using corrective aids. Its possible that the Low vision may be a result of a congenital disease such as retinitis pigmentosa or an acquired one like optic atrophy. Your everyday life could become massively impacted. But making the very best out of remaining vision and keeping independence is key.
You may need to juggle the way you do things but that is not to say you have to give up those regular tasks or activities.
Your central vision is the detailed vision used when looking directly at something. Macular degeneration (AMD) will affect central vision as can Diabetic retinopathy impacting on both central or your peripheral vision.
Your peripheral vision is the less detailed vision you use to see around the edges. It is your peripheral vision that is affected first if you have developed glaucoma. If you are unfortunate to have suffered a stroke, it can affect just one side of your peripheral vision.
Your contrast sensitivity aids you to distinguish between alike colours or tones and make out facial features. All eye conditions can decrease your contrast sensitivity.
How you judge the depth of the position of objects is your depth perception. If just one eye has become affected with a condition then you may struggle to judge heights, widths etc.
The lens of your eye will focus light rays onto the retina. These are then converted into signals sent to our bran via our optic nerve where they become interpreted to the images we then see.
A difficulty in any of these processes will have an effect on our overall vision.
Low vision often causes mental difficulties, that go with the frustration of having eye and vision problems that cannot be medically corrected. Low self esteem or helplessness are dangers as are depression.
Do not be fearful to express your concerns or anger at what is taking place. Stay active, consult treatment and if necessary counselling, or locate a support group so that you do not feel isolated by your change in circumstances. Above all, make the most of the vision that you DO have.