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What devices are available?
Many useful devices (low vision aids) are available to help partially sighted people make the most of their remaining vision. These devices have special lenses or electronic systems that produce enlarged images of nearby objects. Magnifiers include spectacles, telescopes, hand-held or stand-alone magnifying glasses, and closed-circuit television. Your eye care specialist can prescribe these devices and suggest further sources for you to contact regarding counseling, training and other special services.
Other useful devices include:
- Watches and timers with large numbers
- Special lamps to provide bright illumination for reading and close-up work
- Large-print books, newspapers and periodicals
- Large-print attachments for telephones
- Talking calculators and books
How can you compensate?
Macular degeneration (MD) creates a blind spot directly ahead of you, which cannot be moved from the center of your vision. You cannot see through it, but you can see around it. Therefore, a useful trick is to look intentionally slightly off center, a little bit away from anything you want to see. This works especially well for looking at food on your plate, watching television or recognizing someone when you meet them. For example, turn the TV on and try looking at one of its corners. You will have to experiment to find the ideal place to look in any given situation, but you will be surprised at how much vision you have.
Psychological counseling may help you deal with the depression and frustration that often accompany vision loss.
Legal protection
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) gives civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities by guaranteeing equal opportunity in public accommodations, employment, transportation, state and local government services, and telecommunications.
MD is a physical disorder that can impair your vision. If you are diagnosed with the disease, you may meet one or more of the ADA criteria for disability.
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Related Articles
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External Sources
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Macular Degeneration Partnership
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American Academy of Ophthalmology
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AMD Alliance International
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This article was reviewed and updated
June 2007.
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