The National Eye Institute has designated February as Low Vision Awareness Month. The Houston eye doctors at the Berkeley Eye Center want to do our part by educating our patients and their families about the problems associated with low vision and the treatment options for those who may have low vision.
What Is Low Vision?
What do we mean when we say “low” vision? Low vision is a condition in which a person has trouble seeing even while wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses, taking medication, or having corrective surgery. Those with low vision may encounter problems performing everyday activities such as cooking, cleaning, reading, using a computer, watching television or navigating around the house or neighborhood. Vision loss can impact a person’s emotional health as well, leaving them feeling anxious, helpless and depressed.
While the majority of people afflicted with low vision are 65 or older, vision problems can happen at any age. Vision problems in older adults can result from age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Inherited eye conditions, infectious and autoimmune eye diseases, and trauma are a leading cause of vision impairment among younger people.
Low Vision Is a Problem That Will Continue to Grow
As the senior population continues to expand, so will the number of people affected by vision problems. Recent studies funded by the National Eye Institute of the National Institutes of Health have determined that the number of Americans who are visually impaired — including those with low vision — is expected to double to more than 8 million by 2050.
Schedule an Eye Exam with a Houston Eye Doctor
If you are experiencing vision loss, it is important to get your vision checked by an eye care professional who specializes in treating the conditions that cause low vision.
Regular eye exams, a healthy life style, and wearing protective eyewear like sunglasses are just a few of the ways you can preserve your visual health. Don’t wait until you experience vision problems before seeing a Houston eye doctor.
The Houston optometrists and ophthalmologists at the Berkeley Eye Center possess the necessary training and experience to help people who have low vision preserve and use their remaining sight so they can continue to go about their daily activities as best as possible. We work closely with our patients to develop a vision rehabilitation plan that best addresses their individual needs.
The Berkeley Eye Center has been protecting the eye sight of thousands of Texans for over 50 years. If it’s been a while since you’ve had a comprehensive eye exam, Low Vision Awareness Month is the perfect time to schedule an appointment. With convenient locations all across the Houston area and in surrounding communities, chances are good there’s a Berkeley Eye Center right in your neighborhood!
If you have experienced any changes in your eyesight, we encourage you to schedule an exam with one of our Houston eye care professionals – the sooner we spot any eye problems and start treatment, the greater your chances of preserving your vision.