High Tech for Low Vision: How Technology Is Changing the World for People with Vision Loss

NEW YORK (Feb. 5, 2025) — February is Low Vision Awareness Month, a time to recognize the challenges faced by individuals with low vision and highlight the groundbreaking technologies that are transforming their lives. Low vision is a permanent vision impairment that cannot be corrected with standard eyeglasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery. It affects millions of people and can make everyday activities like reading, writing, watching television, driving, and recognizing faces more difficult.

While low vision presents challenges, emerging assistive technologies are empowering individuals to maintain independence and maximize their remaining vision.

Understanding Low Vision

People with low vision may experience:

• Loss of central vision (difficulty seeing objects directly in front)
• Loss of peripheral vision (reduced side vision)
• Contrast sensitivity issues (difficulty distinguishing objects of similar tones)
• Depth perception challenges (difficulty judging distances)

“The most important thing you can do for your eyes is to get a comprehensive eye exam,” says Dr. Rebakah Lin, a Low Vision Specialist at Lighthouse Guild. “The three main causes of low vision and blindness in the United States are glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and diabetic eye disease. Only a comprehensive eye exam can detect these diseases in their early stages.”

Breakthrough Assistive Technologies

For individuals diagnosed with low vision, assistive technology can be lifechanging. Here are some of the latest innovations making an impact:

• Eye6 by Eyedaptic — A lightweight augmented reality smart glasses system that functions as both a wearable and handheld magnifier. It features AI-powered text and image analysis to enhance vision.
• Envision Glasses — AI-powered smart glasses that can read text aloud, describe surroundings, recognize faces, and even make calls. The latest updates allow users to decipher complex formats like charts and tables, and a new AI assistant, Ally, provides context-aware descriptions.
• Hable Easy — An external, tactile keyboard for smartphones, designed for those who struggle with touchscreens. The device simplifies navigation with preprogrammed buttons and high-contrast, color-coded symbols.

Finding the Right Technology

Not all assistive technologies work the same for every person, even if they have similar conditions. “A device that works for someone with glaucoma may not work for someone with macular degeneration or someone with retinitis pigmentosa,” explains Dr. Lin. “That’s why a low vision exam and a personalized approach are essential.”

For more information on the latest assistive technology innovations, tune in to “On Tech & Vision with Dr. Cal Roberts,” a podcast exploring cutting-edge advancements for individuals with vision loss.

About Lighthouse Guild

Lighthouse Guild is dedicated to providing exceptional services that empower people with vision impairment to achieve their goals. Through coordinated care in eye health, vision rehabilitation, and behavioral health, Lighthouse Guild helps individuals navigate life with confidence. The podcast “On Tech & Vision with Dr. Cal Roberts,” offers insights into the latest technological breakthroughs breaking barriers for people who are blind or visually impaired.

Media Contact:

Bryan Dotson

Manners Dotson Group

917-796-8632

bdotson@mannersdotson.com