3 minute read
Spreading the Word About Low Vision Rehabilitation
Erin Klukas, O.D., is passionate about helping people with vision challenges make the most of the sight they have and continue to pursue the activities they love.
An optometrist in Kellogg’s Low Vision and Visual Rehabilitation Service, she’s the program’s unofficial ambassador, taking every opportunity to educate individuals with all levels of vision loss on the benefits of consulting with a low vision specialist.
“It’s so important that patients know that, despite their health condition or what’s happening with their vision, there are strategies available to help them maximize their independence and quality of life,” she says. “A low vision exam is a critical first step.”
“Most people—even many providers—don’t know what’s involved in a low vision examination,” she continues. “It’s more comprehensive and individualized than a standard ocular health exam, because it’s designed to lead to a personalized vision rehabilitation plan.”
Diagnostic procedures and a detailed health history are conducted to assess patients’ remaining functional vision, close up and distance vision, and contrast sensitivity, and to understand their daily activities, interests and priorities. In Kellogg’s low vision clinic, a technician and an occupational therapist are available to demonstrate applicable vision assist devices, guide patients through training and practice applying tools and techniques to their specific activities and hobbies.
Dr. Klukas and her colleagues maintain an active schedule of presentations and events to carry their message throughout the community:
In 2024 she was a featured speaker at the low vision support group at one of Ann Arbor’s largest senior living communities and at Michigan Medicine’s Geriatric Center. She provided an overview of common eye conditions, described the low vision exam, encouraged people to discuss referrals with primary care providers, and conducted a hands-on review of assistive devices.
The Low Vision Service was represented at the annual Visions event at the Ann Arbor District Library. The event promotes local and state programs, support organizations, devices and library resources for the visually impaired.
She has forged an ongoing partnership with the senior adult outreach coordinator at the Ypsilanti District Library to advise on the library’s low vision device loan program, which allows library patrons to ‘check out’ devices as they would library books.
To get the word out about low vision rehab, provider education may be just as important as patient education. “Every day, primary care providers and specialists of all kinds see patients who struggle with reduced vision,” says Dr. Klukas. “My message to them is that, even for those at the earliest stages of vision loss, referrals are always appropriate. We can partner with them to enhance their patients’ function, outlook and quality of life.
