PRACTICE MANAGEMENT Help Desk

Practical Advice for Low-vision Patients

■ The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) says that there are currently more than 6.5 million Americans over the age of 65 who have severe vision loss. This number is likely to greatly increase as the Baby Boom generation enters its senior years and is afflicted with diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration. To help keep America's growing low-vision population living independently, AFB has launched www.aft.org/seniorsite.

Many low-vision patients are not aware that help exists, the AFB claims, so their new Web site offers practical tips and instructional videos. Patients can click on the link titled "Understanding Vision Loss" to learn the definition of low vision, as well as the signs of vision loss. "Medical Resources Roundup" offers links to the National Eye Institute's clinical studies database and research results archive, the American Macular Degeneration Foundation, information on glaucoma treatments at The Glaucoma Learning Center and research on nutrition and ocular health.

The link "Finding Help & Support" features a video detailing support groups and rehabilitation programs throughout the country. It also lists related books from the AFB, such as AFB Directory of Services for Blind and Visually Impaired Persons in the United States and Canada. Visitors to the site can find tips for everyday activities such as reading, preparing meals, managing personal finances and travel by clicking on "Daily Living." "Fitness & Fun" advises patients about large-print or Braille playing cards, as well as versions of popular board games. A product search feature helps visitors find more information on any of the products listed on the site. Advice on using a personal computer is also included. The "Home Adaptations" video and the "Top 10 E-Z Home Eye-deas" offer suggestions to make homes more safely navigable.

"Over the next few decades, rates of age-related vision loss in this country are expected to double as our country's population ages," says AFB President and CEO Carl R. Augusto. "Given how much fear people have concerning the impact of vision loss, AFB hopes our new Web site will enlighten Americans about ways they or a loved one can adapt successfully to low vision or vision loss and maintain a full, rewarding and independent life." OM