Those of us who are gifted with the privilege of sight use this sense to be able to interact with and perceive the world around us more than we do any other sense. With almost every facet of our society integrating the need for the visual sense, it’s important that we maintain the health and function of our eyes in order to participate fully in society. But what about those few who suffer from poor vision?
There are numerous people who visit their eye doctors every year to find out that they have some sort of eye problem that will hinder them from being able to perceive the world the same way people with health eyes do. If you know someone with poor vision, you should exercise every effort to keep them safe and independent despite their condition.
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How to Help Someone with Poor Vision
Introduce Low Vision Aids
Today, there are lots of different devices and aids that you can use to help you cope with low vision problems. Some of these include text-to-speech handheld devices, magnifiers and special reading equipment, and textured coatings that can be applied on numerous household items to help identify them. Help someone with low vision by accompanying them to their doctor and asking what your family member or friend can benefit from in terms of these assistive devices.
Observe the Necessary Precautions
Those with visual problems are significantly more susceptible to becoming the victims of accidents and unforeseen injuries because of their decreased ability to sense danger. Make sure you keep their space free of perils by removing any loose rugs and carpeting, securing tiles, and installing slip resistant mats to prevent any falls. You should also see to it that the corners of furniture are made safer with rubber safety installments that can be purchased at local hardware stores.
Give Community Mobility Tips
There might come a time when a person with low vision will have to travel or navigate their community on their own. It is important that you brief them on the necessary precautions that will keep them out of harm’s way. As much as possible, see to it that there’s someone there to keep them company to avoid any dangerous incidents such as crossing the street when vehicles are on go and making the wrong turns to the wrong places. Tell them that it’s okay to ask questions if they’re unsure about their location and ensure that they have a communication device such as a phone with them at all times.
If you would like to know about helping someone with low vision, or if you have low vision, get in touch with the friendly and professional staff at Laurier Optical Orleans Innes Eye Clinic.