• have a loss of depth perception, making it difficult (for example) to identify if a step is high or low
• have less contrast sensitivity, which makes it hard to see a curb, steps, a hole in the pavement or pale or coloured print
• have problems seeing at distance, making it difficult to determine whether pedestrian crossing signals are on or off, or see street name signs
• see spots that block your central vision, which make it hard to identify landmarks or notice obstacles
• have a loss of visual field, which results in reduced peripheral vision; this makes it difficult to move around without bumping into things (such as coffee tables or open cupboard doors)
• not be able to see and identify faces, which can make communication more difficult.
If you have low vision, it is quite usual to find that your vision changes from time to time. Depending on things like the weather, your level of tiredness, being in an unfamiliar place, and having lots of different things to think about at once.
Having low vision can be challenging, but it doesn't have to mean giving up your independence or your usual activities. A few adjustments around the house can make a big difference in maintaining comfort and strengthening one's ability to accomplish normal daily activities with partial sight.
There is now a new low vision resource available on the Ministry of Health Website https://www.health.govt.nz/publications/living-low-vision
Over the next few articles we will cover how to manage low vision using, lighting, new technologies, Low-Vision aids and devices.
Lighting
If you have low vision, ideally, the lighting in your home will assist in completing daily tasks and navigating the home safely rather than creating a glare and bothering your eyes.
If you have low vision good lighting is really important. Direct light on a task improves contrast. For reading, writing or other detailed tasks, use direct lighting from an adjustable lamp positioned close by. Install extra lights over work surfaces.
Make sure stairs, bathrooms, the kitchen bench and other areas for activity are well lit. Some energy-efficient bulbs may not be ideal, particularly in hallways and bathrooms, especially if they take some time to fully light an area.
You may find a torch useful for going out at night, finding items in dark cupboards or reading in poorly lit areas. Wearing a headlamp torch can be particularly useful when you are working in the kitchen.
Do not opt for lamps and lighting fixtures just because they accommodate bulbs of the highest wattage. Rather, choose lamps and lighting fixtures that allow light to be distributed in equal amounts on tasks from all angles without any reflecting back toward a person's face.
Keep rooms evenly lit. It can be difficult for your eyes to adjust from bright light to low light, so if you keep rooms well-lit. Try not to walk from a brightly lit room to a dark one.
You can control light distribution with adjustable lamps, dimmer switches, and lampshades. You also can control light distribution by purchasing task lamps designed specifically for people with visual impairment.