Bioptic telescopes for macular degeneration

This is not my first post about bioptic telescopes, I previously discussed their potential use for driving. This time I am discussing their use in other areas of life, because really, there is so much more they can be used for.

What is a bioptic telescope?

Bioptic telescopes are small devices, which are attached to a pair of glasses. They work like a regular telescope, in that they provide magnification of distant objects, however, they also have a focusing adjustment, which allows them to be used to see things at closer distances, as close as 25cm. Inside the device is a series of mirrors, a bit like a periscope; this means that the telescope can be built into a case that doesn’t stick out too far from the glasses, which in turn, makes it comfortable and practical to wear for everyday activities. The best part is that, because it is mounted on a spectacle frame, you can look through it with both hands free to do the things you want to do.

Image of a bioptic telescope attached to a pair of spectacles

Because telescopes reduce your ‘field of view’ - the area you can see clearly at any one time - when walking around, you look through the main spectacle lens, which contains your prescription, or just plain lenses if you don’t have any prescription. When you want to see something detailed, like a face, a photo, a bus number, or print, you dip your chin slightly, and look through the bioptic to access the magnified view of the thing you want to see.

This post is inspired by one of my patients, Yvonne, who I recently fitted with a bioptic telescope. Yvonne has had her telescope for around a month now and is absolutely delighted with it, so much so, that she was very keen to share her experiences, in the hopes that other people can benefit from a bioptic.

Image of Yvonne wearing her new bioptic

So, rather than taking my word for it, here is Yvonne’s experience from her first two weeks wearing the bioptic:

“Hi, my name is Yvonne and I have Macular Degeneration. I would like to tell you about my experience using Bioptic Telescopic Glasses.

Over the first 2 weeks I am amazed at the way it has changed my life, and I am excited about future experiences.

Watching Television

This was my first exciting moment, I can see people’s faces and details around them. I can go from the glasses to the Telescopic with a small movement. Sometimes I watch a whole show just on the Telescope. There are times when it helps to close one eye.

Computer

First, I had to adjust the computer, so the screen was at the correct height. I use the glasses for the keyboard and the Telescope for thescreen.

Labels & Instructions

I can read the smallest writing on bottles, packaging etc. I hold them at eye level right in line with my nose, otherwise it is hard to locate the item.

Mobile Phone

Again, I must make sure the phone is level with my nose and hold it in my left hand. I can use the keypad, but it takes some concentration.

Fingers & Toes

I can check if I have filed my fingernails correctly. I find it easiest if I place my hand on the wall right in front of me. To check my toenails, I sit on the bed and bend my knee, with a bit of searching I find my foot.

All of this and I haven’t even left the house.

Outdoors

I live on 1 ½ acres and have many trees, I can walk around and look up into the canopy of the trees and see the birds. I am looking forward to a bush walk now.

Shopping

I shop for groceries for myself, and I am a small eater, but I can see into the refrigerated sections and the deli which have been a problem in the past. I can peruse the shelves with ease and see the small print. In big shopping centres I can better see what I want to buy and read the pricetags and other relevant information.”

I am truly grateful to Yvonne for sharing her experiences with her new bioptic. This device, which cost a similar amount to a hearing aid, has been absolutely life-changing for her. I have to admit that I had not fully appreciated the range of tasks these devices could be useful for, so the purpose of this post is to share this knowledge to raise awareness of what a bioptic telescope can be used for.

If you would like to learn more please give us a call; our reception is usually staffed between 10am and 2.30pm on Mondays and Thursdays. Alternatively, you can drop us an email. Looking forward to chatting to some more people about how biopics can help them.