What Is Low Vision

What is Low Vision?

Low vision refers to a visual impairment that cannot be adequately corrected with traditional eyeglasses, contact lenses, medication or surgery. It significantly impacts a person's ability to perform daily tasks and can affect activities such as driving, reading, recognizing faces, watching TV, playing games, cooking, and other essential aspects of life.​​​​​​​ It is estimated that over 285 million people worldwide are affected by low vision.

What is Low Vision?

What is a Low Vision Optometrist?

A low vision optometrist is a specialized eye care professional who focuses on helping individuals with low vision maximize their remaining vision and improve their quality of life. These professionals have undergone extensive training in low vision care and are dedicated to providing personalized solutions to meet each patient's unique needs.
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As a member of the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS), Dr. Cursaro has undergone intensive training in low vision care. Our goal is to help our patients reclaim the ability to carry out tasks that are important to them and live their best lives.

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Causes That Lead to Low Vision

Low vision can arise from a variety of underlying conditions affecting the eyes, including:

  • Macular Degeneration: This condition, whether in its wet or dry form, affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision.

  • Juvenile Macular Degeneration: Conditions like Stargardt's disease and Best disease are examples of juvenile macular degeneration, which can significantly impair central vision, typically manifesting at a younger age.

  • Diabetic Retinopathy: Individuals with diabetes may develop diabetic retinopathy, a complication that affects the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss over time.

  • Retinitis Pigmentosa: This genetic disorder results in the gradual degeneration of the retina, leading to tunnel vision and difficulty seeing in low light conditions.

  • Glaucoma: Elevated pressure within the eye damages the optic nerve, resulting in gradual peripheral vision loss, which can progress to tunnel vision if left untreated.

  • Cataracts: Clouding of the eye's natural lens can cause blurred vision and glare sensitivity, particularly in bright light.

  • Hemianopsia: Following certain brain injuries or strokes, individuals may experience a loss of vision in one half of the visual field.

  • Albinism: A genetic condition characterized by the absence of pigment in the eyes, skin, and hair, which can result in vision problems such as light sensitivity and reduced visual acuity.

  • Other Vision-Limiting Conditions: Various other eye diseases and disorders, as well as congenital conditions, can lead to low vision, each with its own set of symptoms and challenges.


We understand the challenges that come with low vision, and our team is dedicated to providing genuine care and hands-on advice to our patients. By optimizing your surroundings and providing tailored solutions, we aim to improve your visual comfort and independence.


If you're experiencing low vision, we encourage you to speak with our low vision expert in Columbus, Ohio. Together, we can explore strategies to accommodate your visual needs and help you make the most of your remaining vision.

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