The ability to see affects everyone's life. Changes in our vision can dramatically impact our lives. Low vision is typically caused by an injury to the eye or a disease.

A few of the diseases associated with low vision that may affect our home health patients are:

•     Macular Degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in the United States. It typically affects those who are 65 and older. The part of the eye which is affected is the macula, or sensitive part of the retina.

•     Glaucoma causes damage to the optic nerve resulting in higher pressure; often called the "sneak thief of sight"

•     Cataracts is a clouding of the lens of the eye. It causes vision to becomes fuzzy or blurry and makes images less sharp.

•     Diabetic Retinopathy is damage to the blood vessels in the retina. It can quickly lead to blindness if untreated.

It is recommended for people to obtain an annual eye exam to prevent any complications from low vision.

*Information for this article came from The Clinical Focus by Healthcare Provider Solutions, Volume C5, Issue 3, page 3 and the National Eye Institute