Treatment & referrals
As part of eye and vision care for seniors, a doctor of optometry can:
- Order lab tests needed to diagnose or treat eye disease
- Diagnose and treat glaucoma with topical or oral medications
- Prescribe glasses or contact lenses
- Provide orthoptic therapy (vision therapy)
If diagnosed with a serious or advanced eye disease you’ll be referred to a specialist, such as an ophthalmologist, depending on the level of care required.
Low-vision devices
Some low-vision treatment options include devices and products designed to help people with vision impairment. Your optometrist may recommend:
- Magnifiers (hand-held, wearable, or stand)
- Video magnifiers (to enlarge, brighten, or increase contrast in video displays)
- Miniature telescopes
- Text-to-speech readers
There are many different adaptive technologies and products available to help seniors with vision loss maintain independence. Your optometrist can help you understand your options.
Patients may be referred to low-vision rehabilitation services for seniors. Specialized low-vision professionals work with patients to maintain or improve their quality of life and independence.