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Low Vision

Low Vision is a significant reduction in visual function that persists even after the best standard optical correction. It can make activities such as reading, recognising details, finding one’s bearings or distinguishing contrasts more difficult.

It is not simply a refractive error

Short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism can normally be corrected with spectacles or contact lenses. In Low Vision, however, traditional correction alone does not provide sufficient vision for all activities. It is the responsibility of the ophthalmologist and the healthcare specialists involved to assess the condition, its causes and the rehabilitation programme.

Visual aids and everyday activities

Following a specialist assessment, certain aids can help make the most of residual vision: magnifying systems for near or far vision, specialised lighting, electronic solutions and lenses with characteristics selected for a specific purpose. There is no single ‘best’ aid: what matters is the specific task the person wishes to carry out.

Filters, tints and light transmission levels should also be chosen with care. They can alter brightness and the perception of contrast, but the result varies from person to person and must be assessed in the context of actual use; there are no universal guarantees.

Isolani’s technical role

At Isolani Optical Centres, we translate the specialist’s recommendations into a practical optical solution: selection of the aid, measurements, fitting, functional testing and instructions on how to use it. Where appropriate, the Simulation Room It allows you to observe the solution’s response in a real-world setting; this activity is not a substitute for medical diagnosis, treatment or rehabilitation.

Related terms

You can find out more in the glossary enlargement, contrast, polarised lenses e light transmission.

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The information on this page is provided for information purposes only and relates to the optical and commercial sectors. It does not contain any medical, clinical or diagnostic content.

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