Retinitis Pigmentosa
Living With Retinitis Pigmentosa: Low Vision Support That Makes a Difference
Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is a rare, inherited condition that leads to the gradual loss of vision. It’s one of the most common forms of genetic vision loss, affecting approximately 1 in 4,000 people. While there is no cure, retinitis pigmentosa treatment options are available to help patients maintain independence, improve function, and protect remaining vision. At Low Vision of New York, Dr. Steven Schoenbart specializes in helping people with RP navigate vision changes with confidence using customized low vision aids and practical, everyday strategies.
What Is Retinitis Pigmentosa?
RP is a progressive retinal disease caused by genetic mutations that affect the eye’s photoreceptor cells—rods and cones. These cells are responsible for converting light into signals sent to the brain. As the condition worsens, it leads to decreased vision and, in many cases, legal blindness by middle age. About 50% of those diagnosed with RP have a family history of the condition, though it can appear unexpectedly as well. The condition usually begins in childhood or adolescence, but the rate of vision loss varies from person to person.
How RP Progresses Over Time
Understanding the progression of RP can help you prepare for each stage of vision change:
Early Stages:
- Night blindness
- Difficulty adjusting from light to dark
- Mild peripheral vision loss
Mid-Stages:
- Tunnel vision (narrowed field of view)
- Increased difficulty with reading and mobility
Later Stages:
- Central vision loss
- Trouble recognizing faces and details
- Possible legal blindness
While progression is gradual, the functional limitations can have a big impact on daily life—from navigating unfamiliar places to watching TV or reading small print.
Modern Coping Strategies & RP Treatment Options
While there is currently no cure for RP, low vision care can significantly improve quality of life. Dr. Schoenbart provides evidence-based strategies to help you adapt to vision changes, including:
Low Vision Aids & Glasses
We custom-fit advanced optical devices based on your goals and daily activities:
- Bioptic telescopic glasses
- Side-vision awareness glasses
- Reverse telescopes
- Tele-microscopic glasses
- Prismatic reading glasses
- Custom-made low vision systems
Digital Vision Tools
Modern tech can make a huge difference for those living with RP:
- Portable or desktop video magnifiers (CCTV)
- Screen readers and contrast-enhancing software
- Smart device accessibility settings
Environmental Adjustments
We coach patients on how to optimize lighting at home, improve contrast, and use layout changes to support safer mobility and clearer visual cues.
Education and Visual Skills Training
Patients with RP can learn to rely more effectively on peripheral or remaining central vision. We offer training on how to scan environments, read with limited vision, and safely navigate public spaces.
Personalized RP Care with Dr. Steven Schoenbart at Low Vision of New York
Dr. Schoenbart has worked with hundreds of patients experiencing vision loss from RP. Through custom-designed optical systems, training, and compassionate care, he helps individuals of all ages live well with RP. A diagnosis of RP doesn’t mean the end of your independence. With the right care, tools, and guidance, you can continue to work, learn, connect, and enjoy your life.
Start Living Better with Retinitis Pigmentosa
If you or a loved one is living with RP, there’s still a path forward. With the right tools and support, you can preserve your independence, your confidence, and your quality of life.
Contact Low Vision of New York in East Setauket, Southampton or Westbury to schedule a low vision evaluation and learn more about personalized retinitis pigmentosa treatment options.
FAQs About Retinitis Pigmentosa & Vision Care
