Low Vision? Look into it on World Sight Day

October 12 is World Sight Day – a global day coordinated by Vision 2020 to promote the treatment and prevention of blindness and vision loss.

This year, Vision 2020 Australia has adopted the theme of “Low Vision” and is encouraging Australians to find out more about low vision services and rehabilitation.

As part of the World Sight Day campaign, the Royal Victorian Eye & Ear Hospital has prepared some useful information on low vision.

How does low vision affect eyesight?
The effects of low vision are not the same for all people, but having low vision can impair a person’s ability to recognise faces, street signs, read newspapers and books, prepare meals and dial the telephone.

What are low vision services?
Low vision services exist to ensure that people who have low vision or are blind can lead full and active lives. They promote independence and are available throughout Australia.

Where can I access low vision services in Victoria?
Vision Australia, Guide Dogs Victoria and the Victorian College of Optometry offer low vision services.

What are low vision aids?
Low vision aids are devices that enable a person to make the most of the vision they have. They vary from magnifiers, to assist with reading, to large button phones that make dialling easier.

How is the Eye & Ear Hospital helping low vision patients?
The Hospital has recently installed large poster displays in its eye clinics to help raise awareness of how low vision aids can help patients with everyday tasks. The Eye & Ear has also partnered with Guide Dogs Victoria to form the Centre for Vision Independence, an independent advisory service that enables low vision patients to better manage their vision loss.

How can I find out more about low vision?
From October 12, you can learn more about low vision by visiting Vision 2020 Australia’s website at www.vision2020australia.org.au or by phoning 1300 10 2020.

Vision 2020 Australia is a joint initiative of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness. Its vision is to eliminate avoidable blindness and vision loss by the year 2020.

The Eye & Ear Hospital is a proud member of Vision 2020 Australia.

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