Providence Program Helps People Use Remaining Vision - February 25, 2005

Do you or someone you know I have difficulty with any of the fol­lowing activities due to vision I problems: reading bills, writing letters, completing a checkbook ledger, telling time, looking, identifying money, recognizing faces, or I stepping on or off stairs?

If so, the Low Vision Concepts Program at Providence Medical Center can help.

According to Shari Carter-Frith, OT, low vision is a chronic condition affecting one in six adults over age 45 and is the third leading cause of disability in older adults.

"Common causes include macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and vision deficits which occur with stroke and brain injury," she said. "Cataracts are also a leading cause of visual impairment but can generally be correct­ed with surgery."

"Providence's Low Vision Concepts is an outpatient program that trains individuals with low vision deficits to the vision that is still available to them. Low vision impairments can affect both the performance of daily activities and safety in the environment. Our specially trained occupational therapists instruct individuals in alternative methods for daily living skills that enable them to lead more fulfilling lives."

Methods include training in the use of optical devices such as magnifiers, telescopes or closed circuit televisions (CCTVs), which improve the individual's ability to perform functional reading and writing tasks. Carter-Frith said that use of these devices with compensatory reading techniques, scanning and visual fixation can optimize the patient's remaining vision.

Training in non-optical devices is also provided. Such de­vices may include liquid level indicators, talking watches and cal­ulators, signature guides, large print checks and check ledgers, needle threaders, and slicing guides. The use of contrast, lighting, organization, and the development and use of other senses are techniques taught through­out the program.

Resource information is also provided that may include various vendors for devices, reading materials in both audio and large print, and outreach programs such as orientation and mobility services or social services.

Low Vision Concepts Program therapists work with patients and their families to develop personalized goals to improve their ability to perform desired tasks in the best possible manner.

Carter-Frith said the program is primarily provided on a one-on-one basis in the Providence Outpatient Rehabilitation Services Department but may also involve home or work site visits as needed.

"Family is welcome to attend sessions to help reinforce the use of techniques in the home environment," she said.

To qualify for low vision therapy, one must have a diagnosis of a visual impairment that supports a medical necessity. The criteria for treatment are either less than 20/200 visual acuity or less than a 20 degrees visual field limitation. Patients may receive light and have some usable vision, but they must demonstrate a decline in everyday function due to decreased vision. An order from an ophthalmologist, optometrist or physician is required for evaluation and treatment in the Low Vision Concepts Program.

For more information, call Providence's Outpatient Rehabilitation Services Department at (913) 596-4750.

Printed with permission of Providence Medical Center