Vision Rehabilitation

Publication Date: December 19, 2022

Last Updated: January 2, 2023

Highlighted Findings and Recommendations for Care

Ophthalmologists are encouraged to provide information about rehabilitation resources to patients who have vision loss. Vision rehabilitation is not reserved for patients with advanced vision loss or severe loss of visual acuity. Even early or moderate vision loss may result in disability, which can affect visual performance, cause anxiety, interfere with safety and everyday activities, and diminish quality of life.
Ophthalmologists who subspecialize in providing vision rehabilitation should aim to optimize patients’ reading, daily living activities, safety, participation in their community, and psychosocial well-being despite vision loss. Vision rehabilitation should not only include device recommendations but also address the broader impact of vision loss on patients’ lives.
Keys to successful vision rehabilitation are the ability to empathize, communicate with sensitivity, and convey hope to patients with vision loss.