Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired

The term "low vision" refers to loss of vision which cannot be corrected by medical or surgical procedures. Although medication and/or surgery may help, damage to parts of the eye may cause visual loss resulting in low vision. Conventional eyeglasses do not help. Low vision is determined by acuity, the amount of detail an individual sees or by visual field, the size of area an individual can see. Approximately 88% of people classified as legally blind have some useful vision, but have low vision.

The purpose of the Low Vision Clinic at ABVI is to help people carry out every day tasks made difficult or impossible by low vision. The optical aids used are not like regular eye glasses. Each device is used for a special purpose. Most low vision aids are reading glasses, magnifiers on a fixed stand, hand-held magnifiers, and pocket magnifiers.

Low Vision Services include: Screening to obtain background information, examination by a certified low vision optometrist, prescription or optical devices, recommendations regarding non-optical devices, and in-home follow-up.

Visual impairment is a disability that affects not only the individual, but entire families and social networks. Often, visually impaired people feel isolated and dependent, and loved ones may need help understanding their feelings of loss. Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired staff members help people express feelings, adjust to vision loss and make plans for the future. They also educate family members and help them take maximum advantage of community resources for the visually impaired. And if in-depth counseling is required, ABVI makes appropriate referrals to other agencies.

Location and Meetings:

"The purpose of support groups is to provide education, encouragement and emotional support for adults
who are experiencing vision decline or loss of sight."