Difficulty seeing at night can be frustrating and unsettling. Many people notice that once the sun goes down, everyday tasks, walking through a parking lot, entering a dim restaurant, or moving around the home, suddenly feel more difficult. Even when daytime vision feels manageable, low light can make vision loss more noticeable.
At our low vision clinic, we understand how discouraging night vision challenges can be. Our low vision optometrist focuses on helping patients use their remaining vision more effectively so they can feel safer and more confident in low-light situations. As a member of IALVS, the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists, our clinic is part of a network dedicated to helping people adapt and continue living full, independent lives.
Why does vision seem worse at night or in dim lighting?
Low vision often affects contrast sensitivity and depth perception—visual skills that become especially important in low light. When lighting is reduced, it can be harder to tell where edges, steps, or surface changes begin and end.
Many people assume night vision problems are simply part of aging, but for individuals with low vision, these changes can significantly interfere with evening activities and personal safety.
Why does glare from headlights or lights feel so intense?
Glare is one of the most common night vision complaints among people with low vision. Bright headlights, streetlights, and reflective surfaces can scatter light in the eye, making it harder to see what’s around them.
At night, the eyes also take longer to adjust between bright and dark areas. This can make driving after dusk, walking near traffic, or entering a building from outdoors feel uncomfortable or overwhelming.
Why do changes in lighting feel disorienting?
Moving from a bright space into a darker one—or vice versa—can cause momentary disorientation. For someone with low vision, these transitions may take longer, increasing the risk of missteps or hesitation.
Over time, this can lead people to avoid evening outings or feel anxious about navigating unfamiliar places after dark.
Low vision devices can help improve comfort and confidence at night
Low vision care focuses on practical, everyday solutions. Our low vision optometrist works with patients to identify strategies and low vision devices that may make nighttime activities more manageable.
Depending on individual needs, recommendations may include specialized low vision glasses that incorporate glare reduction or UV protection for outdoor comfort, adjustments to home lighting, or strategies that improve contrast and visibility in dim settings. The goal is to reduce visual stress and help patients feel more in control during evening activities.
Simple lighting changes that may help at home
Small changes can often make a noticeable difference. Our low vision clinic may recommend:
- Brighter, even lighting in hallways and stairways
- Motion-sensor lights for entrances and bathrooms
- Task lighting aimed where it’s needed without causing glare
- Using bulbs that enhance contrast rather than harsh brightness
These adjustments are meant to support safer movement, not overwhelm the eyes.
When should someone seek help for night vision problems?
If seeing in low light has become more challenging or has started to limit evening activities, low vision care may help. Night vision difficulties are a common concern, and support options are often available.
If vision loss is affecting your daily life and preventing you from utilizing your sight to its fullest, contact us today to explore personalized solutions.
Our low vision doctor can help you find the right device to regain independence and take back control of your daily activities.
References
- National Eye Institute – Low Vision and Night Vision Problems https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/low-vision Explains how low vision affects daily activities, including difficulty seeing in low light, glare sensitivity, and challenges with nighttime navigation.
- American Academy of Ophthalmology – Night Blindness (Nyctalopia) https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/night-blindness Provides an overview of night vision difficulties, common causes, and how reduced light and glare can significantly affect safety and mobility.
- Optometry Times – Managing Night Vision Complaints in Patients With Low Vision https://www.optometrytimes.com/view/managing-night-vision-complaints-in-patients-with-low-vision Discusses common night vision complaints such as glare, reduced contrast, and delayed dark adaptation, along with optical and environmental strategies to improve visual comfort.
- VisionAware – Difficulty Seeing at Night https://visionaware.org/your-eye-condition/eye-conditions/low-vision-and-vision-loss/difficulty-seeing-at-night/ Describes how people with low vision experience challenges in low-light settings and offers practical strategies related to lighting, contrast, and glare reduction.