Living with a visual impairment can be tough. But, there’s a special job to help make life better. A Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT) is a key player in helping people with vision loss. They make a big difference in the lives of those who face these challenges.
Living with visual impairment can be tough. But, Certified Low Vision Therapists (CLVTs) offer vital support. Low vision means seeing less clearly or having trouble with vision. It affects many, often because of eye diseases like macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy.
Low vision means seeing less than what glasses, contacts, or surgery can fix. People with low vision might find it hard to read, drive, or see faces. Yet, most still have some vision. That’s where vision therapy and occupational therapy help a lot.
Low vision therapy, led by CLVTs, aims to use what vision you have. It helps people live on their own and feel good about it. CLVTs use vision aids like magnifiers and text-to-speech software. They also help with lighting to make the world easier to see.
Through detailed vision assessment and plans made just for you, CLVTs improve life for those with visual issues. They are key in making life better for those with low vision.
CLVTs tailor their help to meet each person’s needs. They help people with low vision face daily challenges and live more freely. Their skill and care make a real difference in the lives of those with visual impairments.
To become a Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT), one must go through a dedicated educational journey. This journey includes meeting specific educational requirements and going through a certification process. This process is set by the vision rehabilitation community.
Those wanting to be CLVTs usually have a degree in a field like occupational therapy, optometry, or vision rehabilitation. These programs teach about vision science, assistive technology, and helping people with vision loss live on their own. Many also have experience working with people who have low vision, which helps them do well in this role.
After finishing their education, CLVT candidates face a tough certification process. They must pass a detailed exam that checks their knowledge in low vision assessment, rehabilitation, and management. They also need to keep learning to stay current with new developments in vision therapy and optometry.