Under the direction of Dr. Harry M. Judge, NABA opened its Low Vision Center in 1967. In 2006, NABA renamed its low vision clinic in honor of its pioneer and it is now called the Dr. Harry M. Judge Vision Rehabilitation Center. We continue to assist individuals in maximizing their remaining vision through this specialized clinic. Below are some common questions and their answers:

Q: What is "low vision"?
A: When an individual experiences "low vision", he or she often has difficulty reading, writing, seeing the television, or doing certain every day living activities, even with prescription glasses. Most individuals develop low vision because of certain eye conditions, such as macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy.
Q: What is the purpose of a low vision exam?
A: The purpose of a low vision exam is to help the individual make better use of his or her remaining vision. This is done by prescribing magnifiers and other low vision aids, and providing training in their use.

Q: What is a low vision specialist?
A: A low vision specialist is an optometrist who specializes in low vision, and has received specific training in prescribing the different magnifiers, telescopes, glasses, and other low vision aids that are used by individuals with vision impairments. Patients of NABA's low vision center continue to see their ophthalmologists for regular eye care.

Q: Who should have a low vision exam?
A: Legally blind individuals seeking strong magnifiers and telescopes to allow them to continue ordinary tasks.
• Non-legally blind individuals wanting to try magnifiers that may be helpful.
• Individuals interested in Closed Circuit Televisions (CCTVs), which allow for easier reading, writing, viewing of photographs, etc.

Q: What happens during a low vision exam?
A: During the low vision exam, the doctor will discuss your specific visual problems and determine which vision aids will be most beneficial to you.  With the doctor's assistance, you will be able to try a variety of magnifiers, reading glasses, distance vision aids, and sunwear. 

Q: What is a CCTV?
A: A CCTV - or closed circuit television - is a device which enlarges print up to 60 times its original size. A combination of a camera and lenses inside the machine allows the reader to see more of a page than when using a magnifier. Some units are portable, some are freestanding, and others connect to a home television. Prices range from $800 to $2600.