2017 Brings Us One Step Closer to a Bright Future for Those with Low Vision

As we look forward to 2017 we think about the advances that we want to see for those living with low vision. We want to see advanced technology that will improve medical devices and allow our physicians to enhance functional sight to even higher levels. We want improved way finding and lifestyle aids that remove obstacles to daily life. We seek these advances for our patients and the good news is that industry and science are working on them in some quarters. Here are some of the improvements that the future holds to improve living and working for those with low vision.
Closeness and convenience: In some parts of the country new neighborhoods are cropping up that are self contained. Houses are closer together and the nearby neighborhood center includes a grocery store, post office and library. Originally this concept was launched for seniors, but now people are discovering that these close-knit neighborhoods foster more walking and less driving. For those with impaired vision, these neighborhoods make it easy to accomplish activities of daily living without owning a car.

More front porches for increased sociability: When sociologists built a test community with houses that had front porches they discovered something very interesting- people talked to one another. These communities are expanding because when neighbors talk they know one another, take care of one another and socialize more. Activities begin to take place close at home in a close-knit community.

Smart homes: Homes built with increased computerization make daily life easier for people with low vision and other disabilities. Computers built into the home automatically regulate heat, sensors in the floors detect falls, window shades are automatically raised and lowered, and appliances are monitored to ensure safety.

Bigger, better entertainment: Televisions are already large, but now TVs with even larger screens are being developed specifically to enhance viewing for those with low vision. 3-D interactive glasses will improve the viewing experience.

Self-driving cars: Though this technology is currently beset with controversy, we are seeing the future unfold in front of us. When the kinks are worked out and safety improved, self-driving cars will make it much easier for the legally blind to go where they want when they want.

Vastly improved way finding: It is difficult to decipher complicated interior and exterior signage and traverse transit facilities with low vision. Technology aims to vastly improve this situation by providing high-tech accessible formats like tactile maps, detectable warnings, detectable directional texture at boarding platforms, infrared talking signs, Global Positioning System (GPS), smart phone applications, and smart pens. These technologies will be used to make it easier for those with low vision to find station and scheduling information, fare vending machines and fare gates, boarding areas, and determine the location of vehicle entrances. It will also improve safety by signaling the safe distance from moving transit vehicles.

LVS is dedicated to improving functional sight for those who have been told that nothing more can be done to improve their vision. We are grateful for the patients who have given us the opportunity to care for them in 2016 and we look forward to continuing our mission in the new year. We look forward to meeting you and helping you to live more comfortably and fully with enhanced vision. Happy New Year!

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