Reduced vision can significantly impact independence and your quality of life. While some cases cannot be corrected through traditional glasses, devices such as bioptic lenses can help you achieve better vision at any distance.
What Are Bioptic Lenses?
Also known as bioptic telescopic lenses, bioptic lenses are a pair of lenses that help the visually impaired see more clearly. These miniature binoculars are attached to regular eyeglasses a little above your normal line of sight. Just like binoculars, these devices have high-powered lenses that make images larger and allow you to see clearer and further away.
One of the benefits of bioptic lenses is that they improve the sharpness of distance vision for individuals with severely damaged eyesight. For instance, if your normal vision is limited to objects that are up to 10 feet away, a 4x-power bioptic lens can help you see up to 40 feet away.
The telescope is “out of the way” while doing general work or moving about, but it’s always available for distance viewing. To see objects at a distance that you’d typically not be able to see, you’ll move your eyes a little higher or tilt your head slightly downward to bring the bioptics in your line of sight.
Bioptic lenses can be prescribed for one or both eyes. They will enable you to:
- Have better vision for driving
- Watch TV
- Have better vision for walking, shopping, or traveling
- Enjoy sporting events and movies
- See faces and signs
- Complete any activities including mowing the lawn, painting, fishing, hiking, or reading
Who Can Bioptic Lenses Help?
If you have reduced vision, bioptic lenses can help you see and function more efficiently in your daily environment. You may be an ideal candidate for bioptic lenses if you have tunnel vision wider than 5 degrees diameter or reduced central vision between 20/60 and 20/300. These lenses can also come in handy if you have reduced vision from the following disorders:
- Albinism
- Macular degeneration
- Tunnel vision
- Optic atrophy
- Stargardt’s disease
- Nystagmus
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Inoperable cataracts
Reduced vision doesn’t have to rob you of your independence and the things you enjoy. Bioptic lenses can drastically improve your vision and the ability to cope day to day. If you’ve been diagnosed with a low vision condition, contact Valley Eyecare Center to book an appointment. We will conduct a comprehensive eye exam to check your visual acuity and determine if you’re an ideal candidate for bioptic lenses.
