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Making better use of remaining usable vision

Assistive technology for vision loss

Vision loss affects people differently. Some people have difficulty seeing faces or details, some experience reduced peripheral or central vision, and others struggle with low light, glare, reading or screens. Many people experience more than one challenge.

Friends laughing around a candle-lit dinner table, one wearing eyesee glasses

Start with what you want to do

  • See faces and details

  • Read printed material

  • Use computers and kiosks

  • Watch television

  • Explore different lighting and contrast

The right technology depends on the person, task and environment. No diagnosis or product description can guarantee what an individual will find useful.

Different technologies provide different kinds of help

  • Optical aids

    Lenses and traditional magnifiers enlarge or filter the view.

  • Electronic magnification

    Electronic devices can enlarge an image and adjust color or contrast.

  • Audio assistance

    Some technologies read text or describe objects and scenes through speech.

  • Live-image processing

    Some smart-glasses systems process and present a live image through displays near the eyes.

How is different

presents a processed live view rather than relying only on audio description. Six viewing modes provide different starting points for daylight, low light, reading, computers and kiosks, edges and television. Bella voice operation is included at no extra charge for supported functions. Results vary.

Vision aids and assistive technology for retinal disease

People searching for vision aids for retinal disease, or for assistive technology for retinal disease, are usually looking for the same thing: a way to make better use of remaining usable vision for a task that matters. Smart glasses for people with retinal disease are one category among several, and the guides below cover individual conditions in more detail.

What to compare

  • The kind of visual or audio help provided
  • The tasks the person wants to explore
  • Comfort and personal fit
  • Voice and hands-free operation
  • Internet requirements
  • Prescription compatibility
  • Training and support
  • Total cost
  • Whether hands-on testing is available

Try it with your own eyes

An individual hands-on fit check lets someone explore using their own remaining vision, preferred settings and meaningful tasks. It is the only way to explore whether may be useful for that person.

Contact us about a fit check

Trusted health-information sources

For general information about vision rehabilitation and living with low vision:

This page provides general educational information and does not provide medical advice. is vision-assistive technology, not a medical device or treatment, and does not replace care from an eye-care professional.