Unique to the Center for Vision Health is the ability to provide services to any person, regardless of age or disability. Examinations are routinely conducted on infants, nonverbal individuals, individuals with various degrees of mental disabilities and individuals with physical disabilities. Center for Vision Health has the only full-time nonprofit low vision center in North Texas. We treat about 1,000 low vision patients per year.
Low vision is the term used to describe a permanent loss of vision which is not corrected with glasses, contact lenses, surgery or medications. The main difference between a low vision evaluation and a routine eye exam is the focus on the patient’s visual difficulties and how the loss of vision affects everyday activities. A new patient should expect to be in the office for 2-2.5 hours. The optometrist begins by taking a full medical and personal history. Questions will be asked about glare, seeing steps and curbs, reading, using a computer, using a cell phone, and more. Based on that information, vision goals and needs are identified with the patient. A complete ocular assessment will be performed to establish the visual status: basically, how clearly a person sees, where the remaining vision is located, and what environmental factors – such as lighting – influence the vision. After the tests are complete, the doctor and family will discuss their options for assistive devices and any other needed referrals. The patient and doctor work together to develop a treatment plan designed to meet the patient’s vision goals and take full advantage of the sight the patient has left.