Approximately 12 million people 40 years and over in the United States have vision impairment that can not be improved with regular glasses or contact lenses. This blog discusses low vision telescopic devices that are available for people with impaired vision, as well as the many advantages of using hands-free binocular telescopes.

What are low vision telescopes?

Today, people can resume normal lives with the help of high-quality low vision telescopes that improve distance vision (and other aspects of vision). There are both hand-held and hands-free telescopes available, including those that are attached to the head, worn on a hat, or worn like spectacles. Moreover, low vision telescopes may have a focusable or a fixed focus.

What are the benefits of hands-free binocular telescopes?

Hands-free binocular telescopes are always available, because you are wearing them. You don’t have to look for them, or remember to use them. It is ideal to wear these telescopes while walking because they limit the range of focus. With these, you can see the TV screen better if you're seated. You just have to put them on, make sure they're focused, and then you've got that magnification in place. You can put them down when you want to move on to another task. These are also useful for watching sports. Dr. Wolff knows a lot of patients who attend sporting events and are able to see not just the score but also the players a bit better with these on. It's like having a pair of binoculars, but instead of holding them up constantly, they're attached to frames. While they're not really glasses in the sense of your prescription, you can use the magnification and have it on hands-free.

Driving with hands-free telescopes

One of the most common questions we get at our Los Angeles low vision clinic is “will I be able to drive again”. With the advanced optics available in the form of bioptic telescopes many low vision patients are able to regain their independence and drive again. Using bioptic telescopes enables the patient to tilt their head when they need to see things clearer at a distance. This may include looking at street signs or seeing pedestrians more clearly. 

Schedule a low vision eye exam

It can be really challenging to live with impaired vision. Please contact our low vision optometrist to learn more about the incredible options that are available to improve the visual function of patients who have permanent vision loss. During a low vision exam our residency trained low vision optometrist will evaluate your vision and help determine if hands-free telescopes are suitable for you. Schedule an appointment by calling (562) 925-6591 or filling out this form Book an Appointment .