Lighthouse store aids seniors with vision loss

As many get older, they may experience vision loss. It may simply be a nuisance, or it may be severe — the result of serious conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy.

In fact, a 2011 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) determined that by age 65, more than 12 percent of Americans experience significant vision loss, defined as making simple daily tasks difficult or impossible to perform, even with corrective lenses.

Vision loss does not necessarily mean loss of independence, however. Numerous adaptive aids — some involving new technology and others simply new versions of traditional tools — can help maximize the sight you have. Here are some examples:

Difficulty reading the time on your watch? Wrist watches that announce the time can solve that problem. Even more convenient is a handy keychain with a talking watch attached.

Need larger print for magazines, mail and cell phone texts? Magnifiers range from a large closed circuit television to a handheld version. Everyday magnifiers now come in all convenient sizes and shapes.

Using your reading glasses for your iPad or iPhone? Video screens can emit a blue light that can cause eye pain or vision problems. New reading glasses are available with a blue light filter that protects your eyes when reading from a screen.

From calendars to games to kitchen supplies, aids have been developed for virtually every part of your daily routine. Your mobile phone may even include new apps that can read money and tell colors.

The Lighthouse of Houston — a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting blind and visually impaired individuals to live independently — has a Low Vision Clinic that can help visually impaired individuals of all ages use whatever sight they have left.

The Lighthouse also has a variety of adaptive aids available for purchase at Reflections, the Lighthouse Store, 3602 West Dallas, or online at https://thelighthouse-of-houston.myshopify.com/.