If your spectacles or contact lenses can no longer fully correct your vision for whatever reason then The Optical Factor would offer a Low Vision Assessment. Or you might be referred for this by the Eye Clinic or Social Work or you can even ask about it yourself.
What the project does is give you easy access to a range of low visual aids that are supplied on a loan basis. This mean you get them free of charge on the understanding that they will be returned if they have stopped being of use to you.
At the appointment, we will check your level of vision and try various aids to help you maximise the vision you have. And we can signpost you to various other agencies that can help such as Visibility Scotland or RNIB.
If close-work is your main difficulty we would try various magnifiers. These may be hand-held or stand on the page. There are lots of different strengths and some of them are fitted with LEDs which can benefit some people. They really can make a huge difference to your ability to read.
If your main problem is with distance vision there are different powered monoculars to try. They can be awkward to use initially but once you get the hang of them they can make a big difference.
In most cases we have a low visual aid to suit. They do not restore your vision but they allow you to make the most of the vision you have. They can be frustrating to use initially so it is important that you persevere.
If you would like a Low Visual Assessment, or have been referred by another agency, just call on 01698 458005 to get an appointment.