Low Vision and Geriatric Optometry Flashcards

A telescope is used as a low vision device to improve:

Answer: Distance visual acuity

Telescopes magnify distant objects and are prescribed to improve distance VA for activities like TV viewing, classroom use, and navigation in low vision patients.

The most significant risk factor for falls in elderly low vision patients is:

Answer: Reduced contrast sensitivity and peripheral field loss

Contrast sensitivity loss impairs detection of steps and curbs, while peripheral field loss reduces obstacle detection — both are major fall risk factors in elderly patients.

Electronic magnification devices (CCTV or video magnifiers) offer which advantage over optical magnifiers?

Answer: Variable magnification, enhanced contrast, and reverse polarity viewing

Video magnifiers allow continuous variable magnification, high-contrast display modes, and white-on-black reverse polarity, which optical magnifiers cannot provide.

Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is associated with which significant systemic risk?

Answer: Cardiovascular disease and increased risk of myocardial infarction

Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is now recognized as a systemic fibrillopathy associated with elevated cardiovascular risk, including myocardial infarction and aortic aneurysm.

A patient with moderate AMD and an absolute central scotoma should first be trained to use:

Answer: An eccentric viewing technique with a preferred retinal locus

When the fovea is destroyed, rehabilitation begins with identifying and training a stable PRL in the peri-central retina for fixation and visual tasks.

The leading cause of preventable blindness globally, which optometrists actively screen for, is:

Answer: Cataract

Cataract is responsible for approximately 50% of global blindness and 33% of visual impairment worldwide; it is preventable and treatable with surgery.