Low vision may restrict you from certain activities, but it doesn’t mean you can’t be independent and active! Here are some tips that may help make things easier around the house if you have low vision.
- Mark everyday, often used items with bright colors. Try colored electrical tape or neon sticky notes to make certain items easier to find.
- Increase lighting in workspaces and reading areas. (One of the best things my grandmother ever got from a physical therapist was a portable, bright light she uses when checking her blood sugar levels.)
- Increase lighting in stairwells, hallways, and other travel areas. Areas of shadow can be hazardous.
- Rearrange rooms so that there is a wide, clear pathway for walking.
- Install handrails or guide rails in hallways. You may feel more secure with something to hold onto (besides just the wall itself).
- Reduce clutter on floors (to reduce the risk of tripping), tables, and counters.
- Learn to use assistive devices like magnifiers and voice-activated programs and appliances. You might be surprised at what’s available — An occupational therapist can help with training.
- Look for large-button versions of phones and remotes.
- Talk to your eye doctor about vision correction options for various situations — reading, travel, close work, etc. You may also find that glare-reducing eyewear can help bring things into better focus.
- Learn about community resources for people with vision loss. Your library may have large-print books or books on tape/CD. Your town or county may offer transportation services. There are resources available to help!
Occupational therapy can help a person with low vision learn to use other senses to compensate. If your vision problems are interfering with your personal independence, you may want to talk to your doctor about seeing an occupational therapist.
Working with a sighted guide may be useful in some situations, too. A sighted guide can give verbal and physical cues during travel and help describe objects in a room or on a table.