Acquired Monocular Vision Rehabilitation program

Abstract

Abstract-Existing programs concerning patients with low vision do not readily meet the needs of the patient with acquired monocular vision. This article illustrates the development, need, and benefits of an Acquired Monocular Vision Rehabilitation evaluation and training program. This proposed program will facilitate the organization of vision rehabilitation with eye care professionals and social caseworkers to help patients cope with, as well as accept, and recognize obstacles they will face in transitioning suddenly to monocular vision.

Living with a Prosthetic Eye

“…Dealing with your reduced peripheral vision is achieved naturally by simply moving your head towards the side of the lost eye and scanning in that direction a little more frequently than you used to [ 6 ]. The purpose of this head movement is simply to remove the bridge of your nose from obstructing the view to that side so that you can scan in that direction with your good eye.…”

“…He or she may sneak up on your blind side with disastrous consequences if you are just about to make wide hand gestures in conversation. You also need to develop the habit of checking your "blind" side when you are about to change direction and move towards that side [ 6 ]. This will save you many embarrassing bumps and apologies.…”

“…Compensating for your restricted peripheral vision in various situations requires time to become profi cient. You may wish to start by having someone walk alongside you switching sides a couple of times so that you can experience the difference and can get used to moving your head naturally to compensate for your limited horizontal visual range [ 6 ]. At your workbench or desk, the discrete use of mirrors, strategically positioned on your blind side, may help you overcome any problems [ 7 ] ( Fig.…”

“…10.2 ). Similarly, extra mirrors or special wide rear view mirrors can be fi tted to your car to enable you to cover blind spots [ 6 ].…”

Patient Evaluation

“…10 . The evaluation of perception following the loss of binocular vision and reliance on monocular vision involves asking questions that will uncover diffi culties and observing patients' behaviour with regard to movement (natural or hesitant), mobility (diffi culty walking, climbing stairs, steps or curbs), bumping into things, pouring liquids, reading (tiredness, losing place on page), awareness of people coming up on the blind side, conversing with people on the blind side and driving (parking, distance to car in front, adequate rear view) [ 6 ].…”