February is Low Vision Awareness Month, a national observance dedicated to increasing understanding of low vision and promoting resources that help individuals maintain independence and quality of life. For eye care practices, this month is an important opportunity to educate patients, raise awareness, and strengthen care for those living with permanent vision loss.
Low vision affects millions of people in the United States, yet many patients don’t realize that support, tools, and vision rehabilitation services are available. By prioritizing education and accessibility, eye care providers can make a meaningful difference throughout the year.
In this post we will explore why low vision awareness month matters, what low vision is, and how eye care practices can better support low vision patients.
Why Low Vision Awareness Month Matters
Low Vision Awareness Month brings attention to a condition that is often misunderstood by patients and underdiagnosed in early stages.
For patients, awareness means:
- Earlier conversations about vision changes
- Better access to low vision resources and rehabilitation
- Reduced fear and uncertainty after diagnosis
For providers, it’s a chance to:
- Improve patient education and engagement
- Expand low vision care offerings and referrals
- Build trust with patients facing long-term vision challenges
What Is Low Vision?
Low vision is a visual impairment that interferes with everyday activities, such as reading, driving, recognizing faces, or distinguishing colors. Unlike refractive errors, low vision cannot be fully corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery.
Common causes of low vision include:
- Age-related macular degeneration
- Cataracts
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Glaucoma
- Other age-related or chronic eye conditions
While low vision is more common in older adults, it can affect people of all ages, including children and working adults.
How Eye Care Practices Can Better Support Low Vision Patients
- Start the Conversation Early – Early discussions about progressive vision loss help patients understand their condition and plan next steps. Proactive communication builds trust and reduces fear.
- Improve Patient Education – Use clear, compassionate language when explaining low vision. Provide educational materials and reinforce that vision rehabilitation and support services are available.
- Offer Low Vision Screenings and Referrals – Identify functional vision challenges during exams and refer patients to low vision specialists or vision rehabilitation programs when appropriate.
- Recommend Low Vision Aids and Assistive Technology – Low vision aids such as magnifiers, enhanced lighting, screen readers, and smartphone accessibility tools can dramatically improve independence. Guidance from trusted providers increases adoption and success.
- Train Staff on Low Vision Awareness – Educating staff on how to assist low vision patients (such as offering verbal instructions or help with paperwork) creates a more supportive and inclusive patient experience.
- Making Your Practice More Accessible for Low Vision Patients – Accessibility is a key component of low vision care. Simple changes can have a big impact, including:
- Large-print and high-contrast printed materials
- Easy-to-read signage
- Clear pathways and well-lit spaces
- Website content with accessible fonts and color contrast
These accommodations help ensure patients with low vision feel welcomed and supported at every touchpoint.
Final Thoughts: Low Vision Awareness Leads to Action
By prioritizing education, accessibility, and ongoing support, eye care practices can help low vision patients live more independent, confident lives.
Supporting low vision patients shouldn’t stop in February. Year-round awareness, training, and resources ensure your practice remains a trusted partner in long-term vision care.
For additional education and vision rehabilitation resources, visit the National Eye Institute’s Low Vision Awareness Month page:
