Visual Skills

There are four main components of this area:

• CCTV Assessments
• Functional Vision Assessments
• Lighting Assessments
• Hand Held Magnification Aids

An individual may be evaluated in only one area or all four areas, depending upon their needs and goals.
CCTV Assessments - Assessments are performed with individuals to determine if they are a good candidate to use a closed circuit television (CCTV).  A CCTV is a magnification tool that enlarges an object by projecting it onto a screen.  

Individuals may find that using a CCTV enables them to achieve goals such as reading the mail or newspaper, writing checks, viewing pantry items or cooking directions, or doing crafts or hobbies.  There are full-size models as well as portable CCTVs that are used during the assessment at the Rehab Center.

Functional Vision Assessment – This assessment is given to clients who have some usable vision to enable the clients to better understand and explain their vision.  Unlike an eye exam from an optometrist or ophthalmologist, this exam focuses on how well the client uses their vision.  Tests are given on the ability to read print both in close proximity and at a distance.  Color identification is
assessed as well as the ability to discriminate between similar colors.  The student’s ability to scan and locate items is also observed.  At the end of the testing, a report is generated that enables the client to explain “how” and “what” they can see.

Lighting Assessment – The Ardis Dobson Lighting Lab at Bosma Rehabilitation Center is equipped with 16 ceiling fixtures, under-the-cabinet fixtures, two different vanities, and two different types of wall-mounted fixtures. The lab has many examples of recessed lighting, different task lamps and  indirect floor lamps.   Education is provided about lamps, bulbs and sun filters to maximize vision and comfort (from glare). A lighting assessment is performed  to determine what each person requires at home or in the work place.  A report is generated at the end of the assessment with findings and recommendations.

Hand Held Magnification Aids - Some clients need both near and distance aids, while others may benefit from only one.  For example, if an individual has issues with glare from bright lights or the sun, it is not uncommon that a light-colored pair of sunshields indoors and a darker colored pair out of doors may be of benefit.

A monocular may assist in reading items such as street signs, aisle signs, bus numbers, etc. from a distance.  A hand magnifier may assist with reading near items such as the mail, price tags or menus, etc.