Macular degeneration in old people always causes poor vision or even visual loss. As the disease progresses over time, visual aids are probably needed, in order to maintain daily pleasures such as reading, playing cards, baking, watching movies and so on. There are a wide variety of gadgets and tools such as magnifiers, bright lights, bold print books and so forth.
Magnifiers are most widely accepted by macular degeneration patients. Styles of magnifiers include floor lamp magnifiers, pocket magnifiers, electronic magnifiers and reading ones. These different magnifiers suit different tasks and also require different ways to use them. The power of magnifier is essential to offer proper vision aid.
Another form of magnifier is computer screen magnifier. This magnifier can enlarge the print on computer screen. There are still other ways to reduce computer glare and increase the contrast.
Electronic reading device can read books, magazines, newspapers and blogs. This kind of device has embedded speech converter. With this help, old people can continue to enjoy books, periodicals and newspapers.
Some old people are reluctant to give up their phones. Currently some special designs of phone are available. Some of them have large buttons, while some others can display a picture of the person to be called.
Another type of low vision aid is low vision CCTV (closed circuit television), which allows people to see recipe cards, photographs, mail, prescription bottles and so forth. Some of them also offer mirrors for a better shave.
Patients with macular degeneration usually need increased lighting. This simplest way of visual aid is often underestimated. Ott lighting is capable of simulating natural day light. It can also enhance contrast, reduce glare and provide better clarity. Another way is to install more lamps or brighter bulbs.
In addition to those devices or tools described above, large print books in 16 point font are helpful for macular degeneration patients. These special books usually offer dark and crisp letters.
