If a patient has an eye disease such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy, occasionally the vision is reduced to a point where glasses alone are not sufficient. It may be necessary for the patient to see Dr. Gwen Miller for a low vision evaluation.

A low vision examination includes taking a detailed history (job status and visual tasks, leisure activities, cooking, cleaning, writing and reading), refraction (to see if stronger glasses may help) and then a trial of different low vision optical devices such as magnifiers and special task lighting. During the exam, information will be gathered to allow Dr. Miller to customize a plan which best suits the visual needs of the patient, thereby solving some of the difficulties associated with the patient’s reduced vision.

She then will prescribe a device or special lighting to assist the patient in resuming activities of daily living such as reading the newspaper, signing checks, or threading needles.

The examination is oriented and directed to meet the specific visual needs and goals for each patient.