Low Vision Care

Low Vision Care is for people with reduced vision caused by eye diseases such as Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma and Retinitis Pigmentosa, Diabetic Retinopathy, and Cataracts.

Loss of vision can be traumatic causing difficulty reading, driving, and seeing faces of people. This leads to reduced independence, safety and dignity of the individual. Patients should begin with primary treatment of the eye disease by an ophthalmologist.

Dr. Rutkowsky performs a low vision examination personally to maximize ones remaining vision. Using a series of tests and refractive techniques he determines the correct prescription, magnification power and type of optical aid that best fits the patient's needs.

Demonstration and hands-on use of devices.

  • Distance Magnifiers with spectacles and hand held telescopes improve detail on TV and reading signs when traveling.

  • Near magnification with spectacles such as prism reading glasses, bifocals, microscopic glasses, video magnifiers, hand and stand magnifiers, and proper lighting to improve detail for reading.

  • Prism glasses to improve binocular vision and expand visual field.

  • Glare control and contrast enhancement with light filters such as Cornings CPF yellow/amber lenses, provides comfort, reduces glare and improves the brightness of an object.

  • Lighting with unidirectional OTT lamps that provide a spectrum of light that resembles natural sunlight. Proper positioning should be below eye level and close to reading material.

  • Contrast enhancement devices - large lined paper, black felt pens, typoscopes, writing guides and large print checks. Patients are taught to print large.

  • Referrals can be made to the Manasota Lighthouse for support and training in skills that promote self-sufficency and independence.

Our disease page discusses some of the causes of low vision and the most common devices prescribed. We carry the complete line of Eschenbach magnifiers, the world leader in quality optical products.

You may obtain devices and services in several ways:

  • Schedule a low vision evaluation and demonstration of devices.

  • Walkins are welcome to simply purchase from our large inventory.

  • Purchase products by phone or e-mail.

Ask about Dr. Rutkowsky and staff coming to your assisted living facility, support group or library for a lecture and demonstration of low vision aids.

Most Important - Make sure you have an exam by your eye doctor before purchasing products.