The Low Vision Practice
Vision loss that cannot be corrected by ordinary glasses, contact lenses, medication or surgery is called "low vision." If you have low vision, it's important to maximize the vision you have, and Lighthouse International's low vision services can help you do just that.
Low Vision Clinical Practices are conveniently located in Manhattan at 111 East 59th St. and in White Plains at 170 Hamilton Ave.
Our doctors are internationally renowned, pioneers in the field of low vision and provide comprehensive low vision exams to pediatric and adult patients. Dr. Bruce Rosenthal is Chief of Low Vision Programs, and Dr. Eleanor Faye is Medical Director. Dr. Michael Fischer, Director of Low Vision Services, also serves as the Lighthouse Pediatric specialist.
The low vision specialists perform functional vision examinations -- evaluating not only how well a patient sees an eye chart, but also how well he or she sees faces, street signs, newspaper print and all the other visual cues that help guide us through our days. Once the exam is completed, the doctor may prescribe optical devices to maximize remaining vision.
Certified Low Vision Therapists or CLVTS then provide instruction to help patients adjust to, and reap the maximum benefits from these prescribed optical devices such as high-powered spectacles, magnifiers and telescopes. They also work with patients and provide instruction for special lighting, devices, and adaptive computer technology.
The low vision team works very closely with other rehabilitation professionals to ascertain that patients receive the full complement of services that meet their needs. These specialists include occupational therapists, vision rehabilitation therapists, and orientation and mobility specialists. Social workers are an integral part of the team, and provide counseling and other services to patients, as needed.
To schedule a low vision exam, or for more information about local services:
In the New York metropolitan area, call (212) 821-9624.