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Video Magnifier and Eye Disease

With substantial loss of vision comes the challenge of continuing to function through the daily routines. As eye disease impacts millions of Americans with low vision to date, technology continues to advance with the goal to provide low vision aid through devices geared at enhancing the remaining vision available. Among the available products, a desktop video magnifier provides assistance in everyday personal and professional life. The desktop video magnifier utilizes a camera and monitor connected to display real time images with versatility and visual magnification aiding with the success of reading, writing, and performing routine functions (i.e. makeup, grooming, hobbies, and more).

These video magnifiers focus on assisting individuals with macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts and all other forms of low vision. With the simpler desktop video magnifiers, available viewing modes may offer a limited magnification strength selection and few viewing modes for color and contract adjustment, yet provide the basic real-time viewing assistance as designed with video viewing technology. The more advanced desktop video magnifiers provide screen sizing options, color and contrast viewing selections, magnification adjustments, screen positioning, and often computer connectivity. Along with the stationary arm to which the camera is attached and linked to the monitor, some desktop video magnifiers are equipped with an adjustable arm. The use of an adjustable arm allows for the camera to be focused on object s across the room, such as a message board, or to be focused on something close up like when hobby model painting or needle work.

When centrsal loss of vision has occurred, the use of a desktop video magnifier may restore visual independence through low vision assistance technology and specialized viewing option selection. Select video magnifiers have been designed to allow for the possibility of vertical image viewing and monitor adjustment/ magnification to maximize the use of peripheral vision. This flexibility is also useful for vision conditions when blurred spots or areas of missing vision are present. With the ability to better control the image screen location and magnification power, successful vision assistance is achieved with the aid of the desktop video magnifier.