June 26, 2024 — The Vision Council (TVC) has released Focused inSights 2024: Low Vision, a report analyzing the experiences, diagnoses, information sources, and treatment options for patients with low vision, along with the impact on their caregivers.

“Through a mixed-method research approach, including two focus groups and a survey of 101 U.S. patients and caregivers, we set out to better understand the patient experience with low vision, especially in terms of how they learn about their condition and how they navigate finding specialists and treatment options,” says TVC vice president of research and inSights Alysse Henkel. “By understanding their challenges and needs, the vision community can work towards improving access to specialists, information, and awareness of effective treatments, ensuring a better quality of life for those living with low vision.” 

TVC notes that, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Health Interview Survey in 2022, 18.4% of U.S. adults have difficulty seeing even when wearing glasses or contacts. The Vision Council Foundation recommends that individuals with a permanent reduction in vision receive treatment from two eye doctors: a medical eye doctor to manage the visual disorder and a low vision doctor to maximize vision with low vision aids.

The following are some key findings from the report:

• Ninety percent of respondents report receiving their diagnosis from an eyecare professional (90%), with optometrists and ophthalmologists playing a crucial role. However, TVC notes that referrals to low vision specialists are underutilized, especially for those diagnosed more than 10 years ago.
• Doctors are the primary source of information for 72% of patients, though patients and caregivers are increasingly looking to online resources like search engines (48%) and websites focused on low vision (34%), indicating the need for clear and accessible online information.
• While the term "low vision" is generally understood by patients and caregivers, 62% of respondents believe it accurately describes their condition. However, some report wanting alternative terms, pointing to a need for more nuanced language.
• One in 5 patients faces challenges in finding specialists.
• Common symptoms like blurred vision, difficulty in low light, and reading problems lead to significant lifestyle adjustments and emotional challenges.

A summary of the report is available for free download here. The full report is available here as a complimentary download for members and for nonmembers to purchase.

"Whether individuals are born with a visual impairment or develop vision loss later in life, not seeing well in today’s visually oriented world can significantly impact one’s life," says Henry Greene, O.D., FAAO, co-founder and president of Ocutech Inc. and TVC board member. "Modern low vision technology can alleviate many social and day-to-day seeing challenges and help individuals regain independence and re-engage in social activities. Acquiring low vision aids through a specialist can dramatically impact individuals at all stages of life."