Having low vision cannot be fully corrected by the use of regular eyeglasses. It is considered a visual impairment, but unlike a person who is totally blind, a person with low vision still has some useful sight left. As such, their needs are different from someone who has no sight at all. What they generally need are some training on mobility and the use of special devices to minimize the difficulties associated with reduced visual ability.

Three years ago, we initiated strategies to enhance RBI’s low vision services by partnering with optometry colleges and national associations of optometrists. Today, we have fine-tuned continue our programs which now include low vision training for teachers, parents and other stakeholders.

In 2015, we were able to organize low vision training for 100 optometry students and conducted continuing education courses to 30 practicing optometrists. We also assessed and provided treatment to low vision patients and made low vision devices available for sale or for lending to students with varying degrees of vision loss.