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.

How to Support Someone living with low vision?

By Larry Zunde (Optometrist)

Written 18 Sept 2024 – Updated 17 March 2025

Supporting your loved one or someone close to you with low vision requires empathy, understanding, and practical help. Drawing from my years of experience as an optometrist and low vision specialist, I’ve learned that the right approach can make a world of difference. 

Let’s dive into how you can make life easier for someone facing these challenges.

Understanding Low Vision

Low vision is a significant visual impairment that glasses, contact lenses, or surgery can’t fully correct. It’s often caused by conditions like macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy. 

By educating ourselves and knowing the basics, helps us understand what your loved one is going through and how you can be of assistance.

Creating a Safe and Accessible Environment

Lets begin with creating a safe, accessible home as this is crucial. Here are some tips to get started:

1. Brighten Up: Bright, even lighting helps reduce shadows and glare. Think of it as turning on a spotlight for everyday activity. This makes things easier to recognize for the first time.
2. Clear the Path: Remove clutter from walkways. It’s like creating a clear runway for your loved one.
3. Use Contrasts: High-contrast colors can be a game changer. Imagine painting a bullseye on everyday objects—dark rugs on light floors or bright tape on stair edges make things stand out much more.
4. Label Everything: Use large print labels or tactile markers on household items like appliances and medications. It’s like giving every object a name tag.

Assistive Devices and Technology for Low Vision

Modern low vision technology (Low vision aid)offers amazing tools to help give your loved one the independence they need – Investing in theses can benefit them a great deal.

1. Magnifiers: Handheld or stand magnifiers help read small print. Digital magnifiers for low vision even let you adjust settings. Think of them as your personal zoom lens you can carry with you in your bag and on the go.
2. Screen Readers: These devices convert text to speech, turning computers and smartphones into talking companions. These can also conveniently be carried on the go.
3. Voice-Activated Assistants: Amazon Alexa or Google Home can set reminders, make calls, and control smart home devices. It’s like having a digital butler.
4. Large Print and Braille: Accessible reading materials in large print or Braille can be more manageable. It’s all about making the text pop up and in a readable format.

Providing Emotional Support

Living with low vision can be a challenge. Emotional support is just as important as practical day to day help:

1. Practice Patience: Understand that tasks may take longer and be more challenging. Offer help without being too in the way.
2. Encouraging Independence: Empower them to tackle tasks on their own. Encourage the use of assistive devices and adaptive techniques. 
3. Good vibes: Keep a positive attitude and celebrate their achievements, no matter how small. It’s about building confidence.
4. Visiting their Low Vision Optometrist – Accompany your loved ones  to their next low vision appointment. They have the knowledge, skills and know-how  to equip your loved one with the tools they need. Encourage regular visits when needed.

Helping with Daily Activities

Assisting with daily activities can significantly improve the quality of life for those living with low Vision. Here are some practical tips you can help with:

1. Be a shopping friend: Although we live in a digital age where shopping of any nature is at our fingertips, offering to assist with grocery shopping or help organize groceries at home. Online shopping and delivery services can be a huge help.
2. Kitchen Help: Assist with meal preparation, ensuring kitchen tools and appliances are safe. As mentioned earlier, labeling ingredients and using contrast can make their time in the kitchen much easier.
3. Reading and Writing: Help them find accessible reading materials, like audiobooks or large print books. Assist with writing tasks, such as filling out forms or addressing envelopes.
4. Transportation: Offer rides to appointments or social activities. Familiarize yourself with local transportation options for people with visual impairments.

Encouraging Social Interaction

Maintaining social connections is vital for mental and emotional well-being:

1. Join Support Groups: Encourage participation in support groups. They offer community and shared experiences, like a lifeline in a storm.
2. Plan Activities: Organize outings or activities that are accessible and enjoyable. Simple gatherings with friends and family can lift spirits.
3. Stay Connected: Regularly check in through phone calls, video chats, or visits. Consistent interaction can alleviate feelings of isolation.

Educating Yourself and Others

Understanding low vision and educating others fosters a supportive environment:

1. Learn About Low Vision: Educate yourself about the condition and available resources. This knowledge enhances your support.
2. Advocate for Accessibility: Promote accessibility in your community. Advocate for inclusive practices in public spaces, workplaces, and schools.
3. Raise Awareness: Share information about low vision to increase understanding. The more people know, the better equipped they are to help.
4. Know the signs: The low vision eye exam can help identify the signs for a low vision eye exam as well as help them understand the way forward. View more on what a low vision eye exam entails here. 

Over to you – Summary

Supporting someone with low vision involves practical help, emotional support, and advocacy. Creating a safe environment, using assistive technologies, and encouraging independence can really improve their quality of life. 

Your support helps them navigate the challenges of low vision with confidence and dignity.

If you know a loved one that is impacted by low vision, schedule an appointment with us. Using modern technology and tools, we are able to offer those living with low vision the help they need.

About the author 

Larry Zunde Optometrists have been serving patients in Bedfordview for over 15 years. His practice is made up of highly skilled medical professionals who deeply value your eye health and well being. Upon arrival, you will find a clean environment, as well as pleasant staff that will assist you in the best way possible. Ensuring you receive top quality eye care in Bedfordview, Johannesburg is non negotiable. Our team of trusty optometrists in Bedfordview are readily available to attend to your eyewear, eye care needs as well as possible eye disease detection. We offer services such as full vision tests , contact lens fittings, eyeglass repairs as well as drivers license screening.

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