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Huseman Eye Care

Valley West Office

515.224.9681

Merle Hay Office

515.278.1653

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Low Vision

  • Created in Common Eye Conditions, Vision Impairment
Image of a woman squinting.

Most people classified as blind still retain some ability to see. They often have significantly impaired vision but can discern light, shapes, or other figures. Low vision refers to a class of visual impairment that cannot be corrected by glasses or contact lenses. A number of conditions may cause low vision, and actual visual abilities may vary by individual. A thorough assessment by an eye care provider can help you determine the severity of your visual impairment and identify potential avenues for treatment.

What Is Considered Low Vision?

A person is typically considered "legally blind" if he or she has vision that cannot be corrected to better than 20/200. The World Health Organization defines low vision by degree of impairment. Someone whose best corrected vision (in his or her best eye) is 20/70 to 20/160 has moderate low vision; vision in the 20/200 to 20/400 range is considered severe low vision; from 20/500 to 20/1,000 is profound low vision; and less than 20/1,000 is near total blindness. Only if someone cannot discern any light is he or she considered to be totally blind.

So what does this mean for you? If you have a visual condition that prevents your visual abilities to be fully corrected to near 20/20, you may have low vision. Significant loss of visual field, such as the inability to see in peripheral areas, is also considered low vision.

Causes of Low Vision

Low vision does not refer to a single etiology of vision loss. Rather, it is a cluster of conditions that significantly impair visual abilities. Common causes of low vision include macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, cataracts, or glaucoma. Many of these conditions are associated with aging, and older adults are more likely to experience low vision. However, traumatic brain injury, eye injuries, and some genetic conditions can cause low vision at any age.

Diagnosis and Treatment

A thorough optometry exam is the best way to diagnose low vision. Your eye care provider will test your visual acuity, visual fields, and ability to detect color and contrast. Although by definition, low vision cannot be corrected by prescription glasses or surgery, some therapeutic options can help you continue activities of daily living. Magnifying devices, using large-print materials, and increasing contrast may facilitate everyday activities. Other aids, such as books-on-tape or talking watches may also be helpful. Discuss your visual impairment with your optometrist to come up with a plan to improve your quality of life despite low vision.

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Merle Hay Office: 515.278.1653

Monday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday:

9:20 am - 5:30 pm

Sunday:

11:00 am - 4:30 pm

Valley West Office: 515.224.9681

Monday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday:

9:20 am - 5:30 pm

Sunday:

11:00 am - 4:30 pm

Valley West Office : 515.224.9681

Our offices are conveniently located in the Merle Hay Mall in Des Moines and the Valley West Mall in West Des Moines, Iowa.

Testimonials

Reviews From Our Satisfied Patients

  • "I decided to get my eyes checked on a whim while I was at the mall and they were able to fit me in. The tech who worked with me worked quickly yet carefully. Dr. Brown was very kind, professional, and knowledgeable."
    Rachel S.
  • "Super friendly, helpful and efficient staff and Dr. Brown is always great to work with. I am very happy with the care and services at this office."
    Beth R.
  • "Had an exam yesterday, everyone was very nice. I also had my rowdy 3-year old and they were so patient as he was very curious to what was going on, they had crayons and paper for him. Dr. Katie was who I saw and she explained everything so well I had no problem understanding what she was telling me. I was impressed with how quickly I was able to see her since this was my first visit and check in went quickly. I would definitely recommend this company to anyone looking for a comfortable atmosphere."
    Ashley B.
  • "I was able to schedule a same day appointment which was very convenient. The technician was very helpful and explained all the tests that were performed. Dr. Brown was fast, efficient, and very through with my eye exam. I will continue to trust Huseman for my eye health."
    Marqui B.
  • "It is always a pleasant experience working with Dr. Soults and Dr. Brown at the Valley West clinic."
    Shane O.

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