Definition of Low Vision:
Low vision refers to a visual impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses, contacts, or surgery, and that interferes with daily activities. It can be caused by a variety of different conditions, such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and retinitis pigmentosa. People with low vision may have difficulty seeing objects that are far away or close up, may have trouble seeing colors or details or may have blind spots in their field of vision. Occupational therapy can help individuals with low vision learn strategies for adapting to their vision loss and participating in daily activities.
Hendall’s definition of Occupational Therapy:
As an occupational therapist with a focus on low vision, I believe that occupational therapy is all about helping people with visual impairments find ways to engage in occupations that are meaningful and fulfilling to them, while also addressing any physical, psychological, social, or spiritual challenges that may be preventing them from doing so.
For example, I might work with a client who has age-related macular degeneration to learn strategies for adapting to their vision loss, such as using magnifiers or altering the lighting in their environment. I might also work with a client who has diabetic retinopathy to learn strategies for managing their diabetes and adapting to their vision loss, such as using assistive technology or making adjustments to their home environment.
No matter what the specific condition or challenge may be, my goal as an occupational therapist is always to help my clients live their best lives and fully participate in all aspects of their occupation. This might involve learning new skills or finding creative solutions to overcome barriers, but it always involves taking a holistic and person-centered approach that recognizes the unique needs and goals of each individual.
Why an Individualized Approach?
As an occupational therapist, I've learned that it's critical to take an individualized approach when working with people with low vision. While certain conditions may be commonly referred in an essentialized fashion, I’ve found that these conditions manifest in profoundly individual patterns. I've found that every client is unique and has their own set of needs, occupations, and experiences. This is why it's so important to tailor therapy to their specific needs in order to be successful.
One good example of this is the use of magnifying glasses. These are often essential tools in the low vision environment, but they come in all different strengths and sizes. I've had clients whose caregivers have purchased a page magnifier for them, only to find that the magnification is insufficient for their needs. On the other hand, I've also seen family members purchase very strong magnifiers, but as a general rule, the stronger the magnifier, the smaller the lens, which can only enhance a small amount of text at any given time.
By working with a trained therapist who can evaluate and find the right magnification and size for each individual, we can help people with low vision make the most of their abilities and participate in the occupations that are meaningful to them.
Conditions Commonly seen in Low Vision Occupational Therapy
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): AMD is a condition that affects the central portion of the retina, called the macula, which is responsible for sharp, central vision. It is the leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 50 and is typically caused by aging and genetics. It's important to note that every individual with AMD will have unique needs and challenges, and will therefore require an individualized treatment plan.
Diabetic retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that damages the blood vessels in the retina. It is the leading cause of blindness in adults and is caused by uncontrolled high blood sugar levels. Every individual with diabetic retinopathy will have different needs and challenges and will require an individualized treatment plan in order to manage their condition and adapt to their vision loss.
Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which carries information from the eye to the brain. It is usually caused by high pressure in the eye and can lead to vision loss if left untreated. It's important to recognize that each person with glaucoma will have their own set of needs and challenges, and will therefore need an individualized treatment plan.
Retinitis pigmentosa: Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of inherited eye disorders that cause the retina to degenerate over time. It typically affects night vision and peripheral vision and can eventually lead to blindness. As with the other conditions, it's important to recognize that each person with retinitis pigmentosa will have their own set of needs and challenges, and will therefore require an individualized treatment plan in order to adapt to their vision loss.