Eyecare
Low Vision Services
Have you been diagnosed with macular degeneration, glaucoma, or other ocular conditions (such as Stargardt’s, albinism, retinitis pigmentosa) and been told there is nothing more that can be done to improve your vision? There are numerous optical devices available to aid patients with low vision. Book an appointment to find out how we can help you.
Our Low Vision Specialist
Dr. Pond graduated in 1989 from the University of Waterloo and has been practicing in Acton, Ontario since 1990. He is a member of the exclusive International Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS) and has studied with renowned low vision diplomate Dr. Richard Shuldiner to learn his methods of sight enhancement for low vision patients.
Dr. Pond can prescribe individual telescopes, microscopes, and special lenses which give many sight impaired patients the ability to still do the things they want to do (driving, reading, watching TV, using the computer, playing music and cards, etc.). He can also demonstrate and recommend digital methods of low vision enhancement through various electronic devices.
What is a Low Vision Examination?
In order to properly examine and prescribe for a patient, a unique hour-long low vision evaluation is performed in order to:
- Determine the amount of vision the patient has.
- Dictate the amount of vision needed to perform a desired task.
- Demonstrate and prescribe the best low vision device that allows the patient to perform the given task.
Examples of Low Vision Devices
- Bioptic Telescope Systems: Used primarily for driving, mobility tasks/sighting
- Full Diameter Telescopes: Used primarily for viewing television, reading, playing cards, reading music.
- Prismatic/Reading Lenses and Microscopes: Used for general reading and near tasks.
- Electronic/Digital Low Vision Devices: high tech devices used for TV viewing, reading, and writing (eg. Vision Buddy, Ruby, etc).
- Handheld Magnifiers: Used for spot reading (labels, pill bottles, etc) and have built in light source.
Video Resources
Bioptic Use for Driving
Vision Buddy
How To Schedule A Low Vision Appointment
A short 15 minute telephone interview with Dr. Pond is required to determine if a patient may be a suitable candidate for a low vision evaluation. This is arranged by calling Acton Eyecare at 519-853-4300 or click the button below to book an appointment online.
The goal of our practice is to keep people doing the things they love to do and staying as independent as possible.
