Visual Aids for Macular Degeneration

by Deb Braun
(Midlothian, VA)

I have a client that is 85 and was diagnosed with wet/dry macular degeneration 2 years ago.

She has no visual aids to help her and hasn't much money - is there any way to find out how I can get her a magnifying screen or something to help her so she can stay at home?

Answer

Hi Deb,

This is a tough question. Medicare usually pays for low vision rehab, but not for low vision aids or equipment. However you can try contacting these organizations:

1. Department for the Blind and Visually Impaired
of Virginia

According to their website they provide:
"Low vision examinations, intended to improve useful vision to persons of all ages who cannot see with conventional glasses, are available by appointment. Preliminary assessment, and follow-up counseling and training programs in the home or school setting are aimed at ensuring that maximum benefit is gained from the low vision optical aids prescribed. Examiners are strategically located throughout Virginia. Referrals are made by various programs of the agency and other interested sources."

For further information, please send e-mail to:Marge.Owens@dbvi.virginia.gov.

2. Lions Club International

A local Lions club in your community may sponsor a program that provides assistance for the purchase of eyeglasses, hearing aids, health-related services, scholarships or educational needs.

Contact them by calling 630-571-5466 or you can go to the their website at www.lionsclub.org and go to Find a Club to find a club in your community.

Hope this helps.

Leslie Degner, RN, BSN