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A comprehensive eye assessment for persistent vision problems
At Circle Health Group, we have a network of talented eye specialists that can help you to understand your vision problems and find the best treatment for your individual circumstances. Call or book online today to arrange an appointment to discuss a private low vision assessment with a consultant of your choice at one of our 50+ UK hospitals.
This page explains what a low vision assessment is, who may need one and what happens during the procedure.
Your consultant may recommend a low vision assessment if you have difficulty with your vision that cannot be corrected with prescription lenses or surgery.
The main benefits of a low vision assessment are that it can identify specific problems with your vision and recommend low vision aids and techniques to make daily activities easier. This can greatly improve your self-esteem, quality of life, confidence, and independence.
Low vision is when you have difficulty with your vision despite treatment such as prescription glasses or contact lenses, surgery, or medication.
Low vision can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks like reading, shopping and cooking. People with low vision may also have problems recognising faces, reading signs, or picking out clothes that match.
It may be caused by eye conditions such as:
Low vision can affect different people in different ways. It may cause:
Everything you need to do to prepare for your low vision assessment will be in your hospital appointment letter. If there's anything you're not sure about, or if you have any questions about how to prepare for your low vision assessment, call the hospital for advice.
Before your appointment:
Your consultant will ask you about any medical conditions you have, any medications you take and your family history. They may also ask about lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, and exercise. Your consultant may ask you about your mental health and how you are coping with your low vision.
Your consultant will ask you about your symptoms and what aspects of your daily life you find difficult due to your low vision. They will ask about any eye conditions you have been diagnosed with and any treatments you have had.
At your low vision assessment, you will have a range of tests to assess your vision. These may include:
Your consultant will perform a complete eye examination to assess the health of your eyes. This may include ocular pressure, tear film, pupil shape and response and eye muscles.
Your consultant will ask you questions about how your low vision affects your daily life and your ability to perform certain tasks. They will also discuss your expectations for treatment and your goals for improving your ability to carry out certain activities.
There are various techniques and pieces of equipment that can optimise your remaining vision and make it easier to perform some daily tasks. This may include low-vision rehabilitation and low-vision aids
This treatment involves working with a specially trained therapist to learn ways of adapting to your low vision. This may include mobility training, making things more accessible, using technology such as audiobooks, clocks, or microwaves, and improving the lighting in your home.
Low-vision aids are devices that can help you see better. They may include:
Your consultant will ask you about your symptoms, general health, and medical history. They will explain the low vision assessment to you and what to expect during your assessment. They will also answer any questions you may have about your low vision assessment.
At Circle Health Group, your first appointment is very important as it's where we get to know you, provide a diagnosis, and discuss possible treatments. It's also where we learn about your expectations for treatment and encourage you to ask any questions you may have.
If you would like to see a consultant or learn more about low vision assessment, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly.
Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in April 2023. Next review due April 2026.