Signs Your Parent May Benefit from a Low Vision Exam
Author: Larry Zunde (Optometrist)
Date published: 5 April 2025
Let’s be honest—it’s not easy watching your parent (or older loved ones) start to struggle with everyday things they used to do with ease in the past. Maybe it’s subtle at first.
They misread a label. They stop reading the newspaper. They reach for your arm in places they used to navigate confidently.
You wonder, Is this normal aging… or something more?
You’re not alone in asking this question. And if you’ve noticed small, repeated changes, a low vision exam might be the step that helps them get back some confidence—and you, some peace of mind,
Read other Low Vision articles:
How to support someone living with low vision?
Let’s walk through the most common signs your parent or elder friend / family member may benefit from a low vision eye exam.
1. Reading has become a chore—or avoided altogether
Have you noticed them squinting or holding books and magazines uncomfortably close? Maybe your parent has given up reading the newspaper or skip the fine print on packaging.
Many older adults won’t complain about this. Instead, they’ll say, “These glasses just aren’t working anymore,” or blame tired eyes. But in many cases, the issue goes beyond needing new lenses.
A low vision eye exam focuses on what still works and how to support it with the right tools—whether that’s a better magnifier, improved lighting, or something else entirely.
2. Lighting preferences have changed dramatically
Does your parent turn on every light in the house just to make a cup of tea? Do they move closer to windows or lamps more than they used to?
If they need much brighter lighting for daily tasks, it could be a sign of reduced contrast sensitivity or eye disease.
It’s not just about brightness—it’s about the way the eye processes light.
A thorough low vision eye exam can help uncover why they’re craving so much illumination.
3. They’ve stopped doing the things they used to love
Think hobbies like reading, knitting, gardening, or puzzles.
If your parent used to enjoy these but no longer do, take note. Yes there are many other reasons but being able to do these activities requires proper vision.
Often, people silently give up the things they enjoy when vision loss makes them frustrating or impossible.
They’ll rarely say, “I stopped because I can’t see well enough.” It usually sounds more like, “I’m just too tired lately.”
But the truth? With the right support, many people can return to the activities they thought they had to give up for good.
4. You’re noticing more small accidents or unusual mistakes
Missing the edge of the couch. Bumping into open drawers. Wearing mismatched clothes or related occurrences.
These aren’t just clumsy moments—they may point to undiagnosed vision loss.
As a low vision optometrist who works with patients facing these challenges, I’ve seen how often these signs go unnoticed until they start affecting safety.
If these little mishaps are becoming more frequent, it’s worth digging deeper.
5. They seem less confident moving around—especially outside
Does your parent stick to certain rooms? Do they hesitate to walk outdoors or avoid unfamiliar places?
This often happens when peripheral vision or depth perception declines.
What used to feel like simple outings, can start to feel risky or overwhelming.
If they’ve stopped going to the shops, social meetings, or their walking group, consider whether vision changes might be the reason.
6. Driving is no longer a yes or no—it’s a “maybe”
Your parent might still drive, but only during the day. Or only in familiar areas. Or maybe they’ve stopped altogether but haven’t said much about it.
This gradual retreat from driving often indicates a deeper issue with vision. A low vision exam won’t pressure them—but it can help figure out what’s still safe and what adjustments might help.
7. They keep saying things like, “I just need better lighting”
Does this phrase sound familiar? That phrase— “My eyes are just tired”—is something I’ve heard more times than I can count.
But beneath those casual comments may be a real struggle. Most older adults won’t admit they’re having trouble seeing. Instead, they adapt quietly. They work around the problem… until the problem gets bigger.
What actually happens in a low vision exam?
It’s nothing scary. No bright lights or long waits. We sit down and talk about what your parent struggles with day to day. Reading. Cooking. Watching TV. Getting dressed.
Then we look at how much vision they have left—and how we can make the most of it.
That could be through magnifiers, better lighting, large-print materials, or digital tools. It’s practical, helpful, and often a big relief.
Sum up
If you’ve read this far and thought, “This sounds like my parent,” trust that instinct.
Low vision doesn’t mean giving up. It means getting help that’s actually useful.
You don’t have to figure it all out alone. And your parent doesn’t have to keep struggling in silence.
Sometimes, just starting the conversation is the most helpful thing you can do.
About the Author:
Larry Zunde is an optometrist with over 30 years experience at Larry Zunde Optometrists situated in Bedfordview. His optometric training included an emphasis on eye exams, contact lenses fitting, ocular disease and low vision specialist. His optometric training also included working at St. Johns Eye Hospital, part of Baragwanath Academic Hospital, whilst doing his military service.
