People with low vision often struggle with reading due to eye conditions such as glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, and macular degeneration.
There are several low vision aids and devices that can make reading easier and more comfortable.
In addition to using low vision devices, there are many strategies that can make reading easier. Finding the right combination of low vision devices and strategies can help make reading more enjoyable for those with low vision. At Low Vision Center help our patients maximize their remaining vision.
Low Vision Devices for Reading
Reading Magnifier
The most commonly used visual aid for reading is a hand-held magnifier.
Magnifiers with the appropriate power enable people with low vision to read the text of medicine bottles, food labels and oven dials, among other things. Magnifiers come in a variety of sizes and shapes, including compact pocket magnifiers, full-page illuminated magnifiers, and magnifiers with adjustable supports.
Magnifiers can be helpful for reading small text or seeing details up close, but they aren't ideal for continuous reading, like from a book or newspaper. They work best for shorter periods, such as while reading a menu.
Keep in mind that the bigger the magnifier, the weaker it is. The power markings on magnifiers aren’t standardized, so two magnifiers marked "3x" might not be the same.
Your low vision optometrist will recommend the right magnifier for your vision, needs and lifestyle.
Video Magnifier
Video magnifiers, also known as closed-circuit television (CCTV), are devices that use a camera and a monitor or television screen to magnify text or objects. They can magnify up to 50X or greater and can also improve contrast, making them useful for people with low vision.
However, they are less convenient and more expensive than traditional optical magnifiers.
Portable Electronic Magnifiers
A portable electronic magnifier, also known as a digital magnifier or handheld electronic magnifier, is a device that looks similar to a tablet or iPad. It has a LED screen that allows you to magnify text or objects by holding the device in front of them.
These magnifiers are portable and can be easily carried around, making them a convenient tool for people with low vision.
High-Power Reading Glasses
Strong magnifying reading glasses, also known as "microscope" glasses, can be a useful tool for people with low vision who need to read fine print.
These eyeglasses magnify the print size, making reading newspapers and books easier and more comfortable. They do however require a closer reading distance which may take some getting used to.
Tele-Microscopic Glasses
Tele-microscopic lenses are a type of prescription eyewear designed to help people with low vision see better. They are mounted on a telescope-like device that sits on top of the person's glasses. These lenses can be prescribed for one or both eyes and can be customized to meet the specific needs of the patient.
They’re also known as "reading telescopes" and allow a person to read, write, use a computer, and do other activities from a comfortable distance. They are slightly heavier than microscope glasses, but they are more versatile and allow for a greater reading distance, which some people find more comfortable. A prescription from an eye doctor may be required to obtain tele-microscopic lenses.
More strategies to help your reading
Increase Contrast
It's easier to read when the text stands out from the background. One way to do this is to use high contrast colors, like black text on a white background.
Some electronic screens let you adjust the contrast, so you can choose the color combination that works best for you. For example, you could use black text on a yellow background or black text on a white background. Newspapers often have low contrast because they use grey text on an off-white background.
Increase Lighting
Good lighting can help you read more easily and comfortably. Here are some tips:
Use direct lighting like a gooseneck lamp: This type of lamp has a flexible neck that you can adjust to shine light directly on your reading material. It's best to use a gooseneck lamp with a low-strength bulb to reduce heat and improve lighting.
Take advantage of natural light: If you can, sit near a window while reading to get natural sunlight. This can be especially helpful in the daytime.
Large-Print Books or Larger Fonts
Large-print books include larger fonts, better contrast and more spacing, making it easier and more enjoyable to read.
Adjust Settings on Your Smartphone
Smartphones have special settings for people who suffer from low vision. These settings can include larger lettering and the ability for the phone to read texts out loud. It can take some time to find what works best for you, but there are ways to make reading easier if you have low vision.
You can also reach out to Low Vision Center to learn about different low vision aids and devices that might be right for you.
Our practice serves patients from CITY 1, CITY 2, CITY 3, and CITY 4, and surrounding communities.