5 Important Things to Do for a Visually Impaired Senior

by Kimberly Johnson March 28, 2019

written by Kimberly Johnson March 28, 2019

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Vision loss in seniors is inevitable. But it becomes a real challenge for them to deal with vision loss because it affects their independence in even the most ordinary daily tasks. As a loved one or a caregiver of such seniors, it is important to understand the challenge these seniors face to help them in making their lives better. 5 Important Things to Do for a Visually Impaired Senior
Listed here are a few crucial things to keep in mind…

Create a list of important instructions and numbers

Create a list which consists all the important instructions and contact numbers on a bold-lined paper. This should include the numbers of doctors, transportation, emergency contacts etc. Make sure that everything is typed in large and easily readable print. Keep this list in a convenient place.

Ensure that their home is lit up appropriately

Special care should be taken to ensure that the home of your elderly loved ones or those you are caring for should be well lit up. For instance, you can choose gooseneck lamps in places where extra light is required for tasks like cooking or reading. An important place you should not miss out is the stairs. The top and the bottom steps should be especially illuminated. Extra lighting around the house will help your loved one use their remaining vision effectively. Choose the type and quality of light depending on the type of their vision loss.

Use bright colors to highlight things and risky areas

A good idea to help your loved ones with poor vision so that they can carry out their tasks independently would be to use colors to highlight the things they use daily and the areas which they frequent. For instance, for outlets or switch plate covers use bright colors which are in contrast with the wall paint. This will make it easy for them to locate light switches or thermostats. Also, for plates, cups and utensils choose a color which is in contrast with the countertop and table, so that cooking and dining becomes easy for them. Do the same for areas like handrails along the staircase which will make them easier to spot.

Schedule periodic eye exams for them

One of the most important things you can do for your seniors suffering from poor vision is to schedule periodic eye exams for them. This will not only help keep a tab on the effectiveness of the eye care they are being administered, but will also enable early detection of any underlying serious vision-related and other problems. For instance, problems such as cataract and low vision can be treated effectively with minimally invasive treatments if they are diagnosed at an early stage.

Make traveling easier for them

Traveling with poor vision can be risky. You can encourage the senior to speak up and ask questions about assistance if they are traveling alone. While walking with them, you can alert them about any holes or other abnormalities in payment so that they don’t fall and hurt themselves.
You can even encourage such seniors to use their peripheral vision more often and to become independent and do small and simple tasks around the home by themselves. This will not only make them a bit more confident but will also make them happy.

Author Bio:
Aaron Barriga is the online marketing manager for Insight Vision Center, an Ophthalmology Center in California. With a knack for understanding medical procedures and an interest in eye and vision health due to his personal struggle with Astigmatism, Aaron loves to share what he knows and what he learns. He blogs to inform readers about the latest eye care technology and other topics related to eye care, especially LASIK. Aaron loves collecting coasters from the different bars and restaurants he visits during his travels.