Low Vision in the Des Moines Metro Area

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What Is Low Vision?

Low vision is defined as vision loss that can’t be corrected by medical treatments, surgery, or corrective lenses.

Low vision can be caused by:

Our doctors can help you adapt to low vision. Come visit us to learn how we can work together in your vision care!

The Hallmarks of Low Vision

There are many ways to experience low vision. You may find your central vision or your peripheral vision could be affected. You may struggle with contrast sensitivity (the ability to distinguish between objects of similar colors) or with depth perception (the ability to judge the distance of an object in your surroundings). 

You may find certain tasks more difficult with low vision, such as:

  • Reading
  • Using a computer or tablet
  • Writing
  • Watching television
  • Recognizing faces
  • Seeing switches, dials, or other mechanical controls
  • Seeing the board in the front of a school classroom
  • Shopping
  • Driving a car

Thankfully, there are ways to modify these tasks and continue to enjoy the activities you love!

Living with Low Vision

Across America, 14 million people live with low vision. That’s nearly 1 in 20 people.  

It is normal to feel frustrated or angry with the onset of low vision, and you should let yourself acknowledge those feelings. But there is hope. Many accommodations can be made so you can continue living a fulfilling life, and our rehabilitation specialists can help make your daily life more comfortable in regards to your vision. 

Come visit us to talk with an optometrist about the resources and assistance available to you. Let us be a part of your care going forward!

Our Locations

Altoona

  • 1005 8th St SW, Suite A.
  • Altoona, IA 50009

Johnston

  • 5501 NW 86th St., Suite 500
  • Johnston, IA 50131

Our Blog

What Is BlephEx, and How Can It Help Treat Dry Eye?

Dry Eye

If you have blepharitis or dry eyes, your optometrist may suggest a treatment called BlephEx to help.  If you are suffering from blepharitis or dry eye syndrome, it is an eye condition that can cause red, swollen, irritated, itchy eyelids, BlephEx treatment may be a suitable option for you. While it can be uncomfortable, blepharitis […]

Read More…

July 4, 2023
Jeff Neighbors

What Are the Best Contacts for Dry Eye?

Dry Eye

The uncomfortable symptoms experienced with dry eyes can lead to redness and irritation in the eyes. Dry eye disease is a condition that can make even the simplest daily tasks difficult. Fortunately, there are contact lenses available that can help alleviate some of these symptoms.  Depending on the cause of your dry eye, your eye […]

Read More…

June 6, 2023
Jeff Neighbors

Why Does Driving at Night Get More Difficult as You Age?

Eye Health

Driving at night can be difficult at any age, especially if you have a preexisting vision problem. Between glare, difficulty seeing in the dark, or a delayed reaction time, it can be difficult to do so safely. But why does it become more difficult as you age? As you get older, your eyesight naturally gets […]

Read More…

May 10, 2023
Jeff Neighbors
Close-up of a young girl outside rubbing her right eye with her right pinky finger

If you have blepharitis or dry eyes, your optometrist may suggest a treatment called BlephEx to help.  If you are suffering from blepharitis or dry eye syndrome, it is an eye condition that can cause red, swollen, irritated, itchy eyelids, BlephEx treatment may be a suitable option for you. While it can be uncomfortable, blepharitis […]

Read More…

A smiling young woman is inserting a contact lens into her right eye

The uncomfortable symptoms experienced with dry eyes can lead to redness and irritation in the eyes. Dry eye disease is a condition that can make even the simplest daily tasks difficult. Fortunately, there are contact lenses available that can help alleviate some of these symptoms.  Depending on the cause of your dry eye, your eye […]

Read More…

A senior man in the driver's seat of a car with a senior woman in the passenger seat, both with a concerned look on their faces

Driving at night can be difficult at any age, especially if you have a preexisting vision problem. Between glare, difficulty seeing in the dark, or a delayed reaction time, it can be difficult to do so safely. But why does it become more difficult as you age? As you get older, your eyesight naturally gets […]

Read More…

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