9 York Row,
Wisbech.
(01945) 583044

 11 Market Place,
Long Sutton.
(01406) 363348

Low Vision help at Coakley and Associates

Coakley and Associates offer a comprehensive range of magnification aids. Mrs K Horsepole our dispensing optician has undertaken specialist training in assessment of low vision and provision of the more complex low vision aids.

LOW VISION ASSESSMENT

A full eye examination by one of our optometrists, or a referral by a consultant ophthalmic surgeon is where an assessment begins, because we need to understand the cause of the visual problem before we can try to offer any help in the form of low vision appliances. A good understanding of the patients expectations and their physical limitations is just as essential.

Every kind of magnification system, however advanced, does involve a compromise of some sort which the patient must learn to accept. Some people may never accept their visual handicap and will always offer strong objections to any type of appliance. However, the majority of people will learn to accept some type of vision enhancement system once they have discovered the benefits it has to offer them.

Having to hold print at a very close distance or having to use quite a conspicuous device such as a telescopic unit will only be acceptable if the quality of vision, and therefore the quality of life, can be improved.

LOW VISION

Low vision describes sight which is substantially lower than 'normal' vision. Most people consider that with normal sight they can see the world clearly either with or without spectacles. The main causes of low vision in this country are:-

  1. Macula degeneration (48.5%)
  2. Glaucoma (11.7%) 
  3. Diabetic retinopathy (3.4%)
  4. Optic atrophy (3.4%)
  5. Cataract (3.3%)

Each cause has a different effect on vision, sometimes a combination of the three main effects, which are:-

  1. A loss of resolution, an inability to see detail, e.g. to read or recognise faces.
  2. A loss of contrast, an inability to distinguish objects, e.g. to clearly make out kerbstones or steps
  3. A loss of field, A loss of peripheral vision or gaps in central vision, e.g. this would make it difficult to get around in strange surroundings.

RANGE OF APPLIANCES AVAILABLE from COAKLEY and ASSOCIATES

  • Simple magnifying glasses, including hand held, pocket, and stand
  • Light collecting magnifiers
  • Illuminated magnifiers bar magnifiers
  • Clip-on magnifiers
  • Spectacle magnifiers
  • Telescopic units
  • Coloured shields

We also offer advise on task lighting and general lighting in the home, and can discuss the vast range of c.c.t.v. systems which enable the user to read and to write whilst using a screen to view. There are also computer programs which enable the user to magnify the text and offer white on black contrast or different coloured contrasts.

Further information on low visual aids, can be found by clicking here :
R.N.I.B.