Made possible with support from Blind Low Vision NZ (BLVNZ), this year’s Low Vision Day at Auckland University was an amazing opportunity for BOptom students like us to interact directly with low vision patients and specialists. Throughout the day, not only were our clinical skills put to the test but the experience also enabled us to gain a better appreciation of low vision from a patient’s perspective.
As developing clinicians, interactions with low-vision patients are few and far between. We are seldom able to use the skills we’re taught for such cases, so this was a valuable learning experience, allowing us to finally apply what we’ve learnt in real-world settings.
A highlight of the day was the panel discussion where low-vision patients generously gave us their time to talk about their lives. We left with a far better appreciation of what it was like to live with low vision, not only from a clinical point of view but also from a personal, social perspective. For example, patients’ need to pare back their wardrobes to black and white due to their inability to distinguish colours. We were also advised that when you see someone walking with a white cane to politely ask them if you can be of assistance. If they say yes, offer them your arm so you can lead them, rather than grabbing their arm and expecting them to lead you. It was intriguing to listen to the different ways people have adapted to their individual challenges and to hear how, as members of the public, we can do our part to help.
The Low Vision Day also provided the opportunity for real low-vision assessments, highlighting how care needs differ from non-low-vision patients. This was invaluable preparation for customising our approach in a clinical setting to ensure our low-vision patients are provided for, whether it be lifestyle advice, choosing magnifying devices, or simply listening.
