Do You See What I See...?

April is here, and with it, we say goodbye to our "Snow Birds" and hello to something that is a big deal here at LifeCare, which is Occupational Therapy Month, and a chance to celebrate the wonderful Occupational Therapists and Occupational Therapist Assistants who are such a valued part of our therapy team. Occupational therapy is unique because OTs focus not just on physical ability, but also on helping our patients continue to do activities that give their lives meaning and purpose.

One area OT specializes in is low vision, the topic of this month's blog. As in our prior post on dizziness (which you can read here), vision changes and vision loss are often seen alongside another primary condition for which your doctor recommended therapy. Vision changes can affect your quality of life, reduce your independence, and also increase your risk for falls. Yet simple, free (we love free), and low-cost options can help improve the function of your vision.

Make Lighting Work for You

When it comes to managing low vision, lighting is often the simplest change with the biggest impact. As we age, our eyes naturally require more light to see clearly. Vision conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic eye disease can further reduce the amount of light the eye can use. When lighting is poor, the brain has to work much harder to interpret what’s being seen, leading to fatigue, mistakes, and increased risk of falls. Here are some tips:

• Task lighting (such as adjustable lamps) works best for reading, writing, hobbies, and meal prep

• Lights should be placed behind or beside the person, not directly in front, to reduce glare

• Overhead lighting should be even and consistent to avoid shadows

• Multiple light sources in a room are often better than one bright light

Use Contrast

Contrast is another effective and easy‑to‑use strategy for managing low vision because it helps the brain quickly distinguish one object from another. Simply put, the greater the difference between an object and its background, the easier it is to see. For someone with low vision, a white cup on a white countertop can nearly disappear—while that same cup on a dark placemat is immediately noticeable. That small change can prevent spills, frustration, and even injury.

In the Kitchen

• Use dark placemats with light‑colored dishes or light placemats with dark dishes

• Choose cutting boards that contrast with food (white board for dark foods, dark board for light foods)

• Place dark towels under light dishes or appliances

  
  

Around the Home

• Apply contrasting tape or paint to stair edges, thresholds, and grab bars

• Choose furniture that contrasts with flooring

• Use light‑colored switches on dark walls or vice versa

  
  

For Personal Care and Daily Tasks

• Use large‑print, high‑contrast labels on medications

• Organize clothing by contrasting colors rather than subtle patterns

• Choose clocks, phones, and remote controls with bold numbers and strong color contrast

Use Tactile Marking Systems

When vision is limited, touch becomes an important guide. Tactile markers allow individuals to identify important items and controls without relying on sight alone.

• Small bump dots can be placed on commonly used buttons on microwaves, ovens, or stoves to quickly locate favorite settings.

• Colored Rubber bands or textured grips can help distinguish similar items, such as shampoo and conditioner bottles.

• Puffy paint or raised markers can be used on remote controls, light switches, or other frequently touched items to make them easier to identify by feel.

Use Assistive and Accessible Technology

Technology can be a powerful tool for adults living with low vision. Helpful options may include:

• Text‑to‑speech or screen reader software that reads emails, text messages, and documents out loud

• Voice‑activated smart home devices to control lighting, set reminders, check the time, or manage alarms without needing to see a screen

• Smartphone apps that magnify text, identify objects, or read printed material aloud

• Electronic or wearable magnifiers that enlarge and enhance visual details in real time

Low Vision Friendly Routines and Habits

Consistent routines reduce reliance on vision and make daily tasks feel more predictable and safe.

• File fingernails weekly instead of clipping to reduce the risk of cuts

• Carry a small flashlight when going out to restaurants or public places to read menus or see meals more clearly

• Use a ruler or line guide when reading or writing to help stay on track

• Choose bold pens, such as gel or felt‑tip pens, for better contrast when writing

• Purchase pre‑cut vegetables or pre‑measured ingredients to simplify meal preparation

Learn and Practice Eccentric Viewing

For individuals with conditions that affect central vision—such as macular degeneration—eccentric viewing can be a helpful strategy. Instead of looking directly at an object, the individual learns to shift their gaze slightly to the side, using a part of the retina with better vision. This technique takes time and practice, but can improve the ability to see objects more clearly.

Low vision can change how the world looks, but it doesn’t change who you are. Even small changes can increase independence and safety, and those moments matter. Talk to your doctor or your therapy team to learn specific strategies for your needs and, if you see one of our great OTs this month, give them a "high-five" to celebrate the month that celebrates them. Also, read our "Ode to Occupational Therapy" - a fun tribute to an amazing therapy discipline.

I haven't said this once yet, but of course you

must also remember to do your exercises!

Signing off until next month...