Low Vision Aids: Optic Aids or Electronic Aids for Children?

The tools for accessing the information (smartphones, tablets) in the hands of children have increasingly been causing visual acuity conditions. The same is also true for adults, but they have been relying on electronic visual aids to carry on with their daily lives. Such findings indicate that children's eye care needs more attention, especially also for children with low vision.

When Are Low Vision Aids Necessary?

A low vision condition is when a person has visual impairment on the scale of moderate to severe which also inhibits their daily activities. Tasks like reading and driving may not be feasible for such individuals as their condition also sometimes terms them as partially sighted or legally blind.

For all such patients, obtaining low vision aids is a mandatory solution to make their lives easier. Alternatively, low-vision aids can also be opted for by individuals with near-sightedness or far-sightedness.

There is no barrier to obtaining low-vision aids, but the impact of their usefulness largely depends on the eye condition of the user. Usually, people with low vision have either diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, or refractive errors. Resultantly, people suffering from low vision opt for either optic visual aids or electronic device aids to see clearly.

How do Low Vision Optic Aids Differ from Electronic Vision Aids?

Low Vision Optic Aids

Devices that use lenses and other optical components to enhance vision are usually classified under Optic aids. They are relatively simple to handle, easy to use, and maybe lightweight, despite offering limited durability.

Electronic Vision Aids

Tools that enhance vision using electronic or digital technology are classified under electronic aids. Such devices are primarily cameras, screens, and software that process or enhance images or vision.

Optic Aids vs Electronic Vision Aids

• Optic Aids are subjected to limited magnification, crossing the threshold makes distortion inevitable.

• Electronic Aids may be too complex to use for certain individuals unfamiliar with using technology

• The optic aids fulfill only one purpose, i.e. offering magnification.

• Most electronic aids allow users to adjust brightness, contrast, magnification, object recognition, and text-to-speech.

• Optic aids are easy to replace without spending enormous costs or waiting on availability.

• The electronic aids require battery or charging before use and are relatively costlier than optic aids.

Which Visual Aids are Best For You?

There is no definitive universal answer for which vision aid may serve you best, as it depends on various factors. For example, if you prefer the convenience of using your screen reader, wearables, or smartphones, it's better than carrying a magnifying glass separately.

Alternatively, if you prefer direct hands-on operation or would prefer to not utilize devices with screens, optic aids are more favorable. However, before you pick either of these types of visual aids, it's highly recommended to visit an optometry center. In Beaches, or any BC region, or anywhere else that you call home, prioritize your eye care to prolong the lifespan of your visual instruments and their capabilities.