Vision impairment, also known as low vision or visual impairment, is a condition that affects many people in New Zealand. According to the Ministry of Health, approximately 11% of adults in New Zealand have some degree of vision impairment. While there is currently no cure for the condition, there are a variety of mobility aids available that can help individuals with vision impairment live more independently and safely.
Types of Vision Impairment
There are many different types of vision impairment, each with its own set of symptoms and causes. Some of the most common types of vision impairment include:
Age-Related Macular Degeneration: This is a common condition that affects the macula, which is the part of the eye responsible for central vision. Symptoms include difficulty seeing fine details, blurry or distorted vision, and difficulty reading.
Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a condition that causes damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to vision loss. Symptoms include difficulty seeing in low light, tunnel vision, and blind spots.
Diabetic Retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina. Symptoms include blurred vision, floaters, and difficulty seeing at night.
Cataracts: Cataracts are a common condition that affects the lens of the eye, causing it to become cloudy. Symptoms include blurry vision, difficulty seeing in bright light, and halos around lights.
Mobility Aids for Vision Impairment
While there is currently no cure for vision impairment, there are a variety of mobility aids that can help individuals with the condition live more independently and safely. Some of the most common mobility aids for vision impairment include:
Magnifying Devices: Magnifying devices such as magnifying glasses or electronic magnifiers can help individuals with vision impairment see small print or details more clearly.
Audio Aids: Audio aids such as talking watches or clocks, audio books, or voice assistants can help individuals with vision impairment access information without relying on visual cues.
White Canes: White canes are a common mobility aid for individuals with vision impairment. They can help individuals navigate their surroundings more safely by detecting changes in terrain or obstacles in their path.
Guide Dogs: Guide dogs are specially trained to assist individuals with vision impairment navigate their surroundings safely and independently.
If you or someone you know has vision impairment, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider or mobility aid specialist about the available options for mobility aids and other resources that can help.
More Information
Blindness and low vision | Health Navigator NZ
Blind Low Vision NZ | Support for Kiwis who are blind or have low vision
Blind Citizens NZ | Association of Blind Citizens of New Zealand Incorporated
