What is Low Vision?
Low vision simply means not being able to see as well as most other people even when you’re wearing glasses or contact lenses. For example, you may have low vision if you have age related macular degeneration (AMD).
If you already have a vision impairment, low vision, or are registered as either sight impaired or severely sight impaired, a specially trained and accredited Low Vision Optometrist can help you make the best use of the sight you have by conducting a Low Vision Assessment. The assessment is funded by Welsh Government, free to the patient.
If you struggle to see clearly even with specs or contact lenses, you could be entitled to a Low Vision Assessment
Many vision conditions, such as short- or long-sightedness, can be corrected simply with glasses or contact lenses. However, in some situations these aren’t enough, and you might require further help.
Fortunately, here at Annette Dobbs Eyecare we are accredited with the Low Vision Service Wales, which means we are specially trained to offer you the assessments and help you need.
During your low vision assessment with us we will ask you about your lifestyle and hobbies, including day to day activities that you might struggle with because of your vision. This will help us to narrow down the type of low vision aids that would be best suited to you.
Low vision aids include hand-held magnifiers, electronic magnifiers and lamps to improve the lighting quality in your environment when reading printed text. You will be able to test a variety of these and then choose the best solution for you, which you can take away and use in your everyday life for as long as you need.
We can also give you advice about managing your vision condition, and put you in touch with other relevant services and support groups if necessary. What’s more, these assessments and low vision aids are completely free for you, courtesy of the Low Vision Service Wales.
Low Vision FAQs
Do I have to pay for the assessment or low vision aids?
No, both the assessment and any low vision aids you require are funded by the Welsh Government.
How often can I have an assessment?
You are entitled to one full low vision assessment every year.
What about my routine eye test?
In order to conduct a Low Vision Assessment, you need to have had an eye test within the last 12 months. If you are overdue, we can conduct an eye test and Low Vision Assessment for you on the same day.