Low Vision Ophthalmology Course

Lesson 1 • Epidemiology of Visual Impairment

Examines global and regional prevalence data for low vision conditions. Contextualises patient demand and guides resource allocation priorities.

Lesson 2 • The Low Vision Rehabilitation Model

Introduces the interdisciplinary rehabilitation framework central to low vision practice. Positions the ophthalmologist within a broader care team.

Lesson 3 • Anatomy and Pathophysiology Review

Reviews ocular structures relevant to low vision and their functional roles. Links anatomical deficits to specific visual impairment patterns encountered clinically.

Lesson 1 • Visual Field Assessment in Low Vision

Adapts standard perimetry techniques for patients with severe impairment. Field data guides magnification strategy and orientation training needs.

Lesson 2 • Patient History and Goal Setting

Structures the intake interview to capture visual history, daily activity demands, and patient goals. Aligns clinical objectives with patient-reported needs.

Lesson 3 • Contrast Sensitivity and Glare Testing

Evaluates functional vision beyond acuity using contrast and glare measures. Reveals deficits that standard acuity tests miss and informs filter prescriptions.

Lesson 4 • Distance and Near Visual Acuity Testing

Covers specialised charts and protocols for measuring residual acuity at distance and near. Ensures accurate baseline data for optical device selection.

Lesson 1 • Magnification Theory and Calculation

Explains relative size, distance, angular, and projection magnification types. Provides calculation methods used to determine required magnification for each patient.

Lesson 2 • Telescope and Bioptic Optics

Explains Galilean and Keplerian telescope designs and their clinical applications. Guides selection of distance devices for mobility and task-specific use.

Lesson 3 • Optics of Spectacle Magnifiers

Covers high-plus lens design, working distance, and field-of-view constraints. Prepares clinicians to prescribe reading additions and microscopic spectacles accurately.

Lesson 1 • Device Dispensing and Follow-Up

Establishes protocols for dispensing, patient instruction, and scheduled follow-up. Ensures device adoption and identifies need for prescription adjustment.

Lesson 2 • Spectral Filters and Tints

Examines therapeutic tints and spectral filters for contrast enhancement and glare control. Links filter selection to contrast sensitivity and glare test results.

Lesson 3 • Prescribing Distance Optical Devices

Covers monocular and binocular telescope prescription for distance tasks. Addresses patient training needs and realistic expectation setting.

Lesson 4 • Prescribing Near Optical Devices

Guides the trial and prescription of spectacle magnifiers, hand magnifiers, and stand magnifiers. Integrates acuity data and task demands into device selection.

Lesson 1 • Smartphone and Tablet Accessibility

Reviews built-in accessibility features and third-party apps for visual impairment. Enables clinicians to guide patients in using personal devices as low vision aids.

Lesson 2 • Video Magnifiers and CCTVs

Covers desktop and portable video magnifier technology, features, and clinical indications. Prepares clinicians to recommend appropriate systems for reading and writing tasks.

Lesson 3 • Head-Mounted Electronic Devices

Examines wearable electronic magnification systems and their clinical applications. Addresses patient selection criteria and realistic outcome expectations.

Lesson 1 • Activities of Daily Living Adaptations

Reviews non-optical adaptations for self-care, home management, and leisure activities. Broadens the rehabilitation plan beyond optical devices to whole-life functioning.

Lesson 2 • Paediatric Low Vision Rehabilitation

Adapts assessment and rehabilitation approaches for children with low vision. Addresses developmental considerations and school-based support needs.

Lesson 3 • Orientation and Mobility Basics

Introduces O&M principles relevant to the ophthalmologist's role in referral and goal-setting. Ensures appropriate O&M referrals are made based on clinical findings.

Lesson 4 • Eccentric Viewing and PRL Training

Teaches techniques for developing and stabilising a preferred retinal locus in central scotoma patients. Directly improves reading and face recognition outcomes.

Lesson 1 • Diabetic Retinopathy and Low Vision

Manages fluctuating vision, scotomas, and contrast loss in diabetic retinopathy patients. Addresses systemic disease coordination and patient education priorities.

Lesson 2 • Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Addresses central scotoma management, PRL training, and device selection for AMD patients. Integrates medical management status into rehabilitation planning.

Lesson 3 • Inherited Retinal Dystrophies

Covers low vision management for retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, and related conditions. Addresses progressive vision loss counselling and long-term planning.

Lesson 4 • Cerebral and Neurological Visual Impairment

Addresses cortical and neurological visual impairment in children and adults. Adapts assessment and rehabilitation for non-ocular visual pathway dysfunction.

Lesson 1 • Outcomes Measurement and Quality Improvement

Establishes systems for tracking patient outcomes and improving clinical processes. Enables evidence-based refinement of low vision service delivery.

Lesson 2 • Building a Low Vision Service

Covers the operational, staffing, and equipment requirements for establishing a low vision clinic. Prepares clinicians to design and launch new services within existing practices.

Lesson 3 • Research and Evidence-Based Practice

Guides critical appraisal of low vision research and application of evidence to clinical decisions. Supports ongoing professional development and contribution to the field.

Lesson 4 • Interdisciplinary Team Leadership

Develops skills for coordinating care across ophthalmology, optometry, O&M, and social services. Positions the ophthalmologist as an effective team leader in rehabilitation settings.