A woman once came into our Westbury office after struggling for years with vision loss from macular degeneration. Reading her mail was a challenge. Watching TV meant sitting just inches from the screen. She’d been told, “You’ll have to learn to live with it.” But no one had shown her how. At Steven Schoenbart, OD Low Vision, we believe living with macular degeneration doesn’t mean giving up—it means finding new ways forward.
Macular degeneration, whether dry or wet, affects central vision. It makes tasks like reading, driving, recognizing faces, or seeing fine details more difficult. But with the right tools, strategies, and support, you can reclaim your independence and confidence.
Understanding Life with Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration impacts the macula—the central part of your retina responsible for sharp, straight-ahead vision. While it doesn't cause complete blindness, it can significantly affect your ability to:
- Read books, labels, or digital screens
- Recognize faces
- Watch TV or attend performances
- Drive safely
- Perform detail-oriented tasks like cooking or sewing
The good news is: you’re not alone, and there are solutions beyond standard glasses or magnifiers.
Tip #1: Upgrade Your Lighting
Good lighting can make a surprising difference. Brighter, more focused light helps you see with greater clarity—especially for reading or working at close range.
What helps:
- Adjustable LED lamps
- Daylight-spectrum bulbs
- Under-cabinet lights for kitchen workspaces
- Task lamps with flexible necks
Dr. Schoenbart helps patients identify lighting improvements specific to their home environments during low vision consultations.
Tip #2: Use High-Contrast Settings
Contrast matters when central vision is compromised. White plates on dark placemats, bold black text on white backgrounds, and thick-lined pens make daily tasks easier.
Everyday examples:
- Black-and-white clocks with large numbers
- Mobile device settings for “dark mode” or high-contrast text
- Labels in bold print or tactile indicators for medications and pantry items
Tip #3: Explore Customized Low Vision Glasses
Unlike standard eyeglasses, low vision glasses are designed specifically for macular degeneration. At Steven Schoenbart, OD Low Vision, Dr. Steven Schoenbart customizes options like:
- E-Scoop glasses – enhance contrast and brightness
- Bioptic telescope glasses – help patients meet DMV vision requirements for driving
- Full-diameter telescope glasses – great for watching TV or seeing across a room
- Microscope or prismatic glasses – ideal for reading or working up close
These lenses are not “one-size-fits-all”—they’re precision tools tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
Tip #4: Consider Electronic Visual Aids
Technology is a game-changer for many macular degeneration patients. Depending on your goals, Dr. Schoenbart may recommend:
- Portable or desktop video magnifiers (CCTV)
- Tablet and smartphone accessibility apps
- Computer software that adjusts contrast, magnification, and font size
- Wearable headsets or screen readers for hands-free navigation
We’ll help you learn to use these devices with confidence and ease.
Tip #5: Adjust Your Daily Routine—Not Your Expectations
Adapting doesn’t mean lowering your expectations. It means creating a routine that works with your vision. Simple changes can restore independence:
- Organize items consistently so you can locate them by feel
- Use audio reminders or smart speakers to manage time and tasks
- Color-code or label drawers, medications, and appliances
With the right support, you can still enjoy reading, hobbies, meals with family, and even limited driving—depending on your remaining vision and tools.
We’re Here to Help You Live Fully in New York
At Steven Schoenbart, OD Low Vision, Dr. Schoenbart focuses on what you want to get back to doing. We don’t just treat a diagnosis—we build a personalized plan based on your goals, your environment, and your daily life.
Whether you want to read independently, drive safely, or simply move through your day more confidently, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Schedule a Low Vision Consultation in New York
Living with macular degeneration is possible—with the right tools and support. Call 888-393-8266 today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Steven Schoenbart. Discover how customized low vision care can help you regain clarity, control, and confidence in your daily life.