Low vision is one of the most common physical impairments among Americans, especially those ages 70 and older. Yale's low vision rehabilitation program offers services not readily available to individuals whose vision cannot be improved with ordinary glasses, medicine or surgery.

The following are some of the devices used to assist patients with low vision:

• High-power glasses - for close reading
• Magnifiers - can be hand-held or on stands to keep hands free
• Telescopes - binocular or monocular telescopes can be worn like glasses or hand-held
• Computer assisted devices - includes voice output and print size magnification systems
• Electronic reading machines
• Talking home appliances
• Closed circuit television viewers

David W. Parke, MD, Director of the Lions Low Vision Clinic at Yale Eye Center, is an ophthalmologist with years of experience in helping people regain independence and an increased quality of life by making the most of their vision through the use of low vision aids. He works closely with each patient to find the aids or devices that will be best for them. The Lions of Connecticut provide funds to cover the cost of aids and devices for those who cannot afford them.

To contact Dr. Parke and the Lions Low Vision Center at Yale Eye Center, call 203-785-2020.

The Lions Low Vision Center at Yale Team

David W. Parke, MD, Director