OT and Low Vision [from: www.aota.org/Consumers/Tips/Adults/LowVision/35190.aspx]

It is possible for people with vision impairments to continue to live independent and meaningful lives with the help of an occupational therapist. Practitioners can help people with low vision to continue living in their own homes and complete daily tasks, such as showering, dressing, cooking, grocery shopping, managing finances, and getting around in the community.

What can an occupational therapist do?

• Evaluate a person's environment at work and at home to determine how it can be altered to make the most out of a person's remaining vision.
• Help a person identify items used every day that need to "stand out" (provide a contrast) by marking them with bright colors so they can be easily found.
• Increase lighting so objects can be seen easily. In addition to providing extra light to items, occupational therapists also can identify areas that could be dangerous if not well lit, such as stairwells, kitchens, and spaces with area rugs.
• Reduce clutter in rooms to increase safety by removing items from countertops, tabletops, and floors.
• Educate a person on how to compensate for vision loss by using other senses, such as touch, hearing, and smell.
• Recommend and train a person to use assistive devices that can aid in completing daily activities, such as magnifiers, audio equipment, and voice-activated computers.
• Evaluate a person's ability to drive and determine whether a person with low vision can adjust his or her driving so that he or she can continue to get around safely or should develop alternative ways to get around.

 For a tip sheet on low vision please visit: www.aota.org/Consumers/Tips/Adults/LowVision/35135.aspx

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