Low vision satellite clinic now open in Lincoln

The Weigel Williamson Center for Visual Rehabilitation at UNMC is now operating a low vision clinic in Lincoln.

“With the opening of this satellite clinic we are better able to serve the needs of the citizens of southeast Nebraska,” said John Shepherd, M.D., director of the center.

The satellite clinic, which opened last summer, is located in the Taylor Meadows Medical Center, 1101 S. 70th St., suite 200. The satellite clinic is open every Monday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and additional days are added as needed.

Low vision is lunch topic Evy Katz, a low vision occupational therapist, will speak at the Tuesday, Feb. 18 Olson Center Brown Bag Luncheon as the Olson Center for Women’s Health recognizes Low Vision Awareness Month. Katz will speak about the common causes of adult vision loss and what can be done if you or someone you know has been diagnosed with a non-correctable vision loss. The session will be held from noon to 1 p.m. in the UNMC Eppley Science Hall Amphitheater. Seating is limited; please pre-register by calling the Olson Center at 402-559-6345. Bring your lunch. Simple refreshments will be provided. The lecture is free. However, nursing credit is available for $10. Payment instructions will be given when you pre-register.

Low vision affects nearly 2.9 million Americans, a number expected to double by the year 2030.

The professionals at the Weigel Williamson Center help people with low vision adapt to the remaining vision they do have and live full lives.

While there are several diseases that can cause low vision, the most common are diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and macular degeneration.

“There are currently no cures for the eye diseases that cause low vision,” Dr. Shepherd said. “There are different avenues of treatment that can equip individuals to function better with their remaining sight.”

The goal of the Weigel Williamson Center, he said, is to help individuals maximize their residual vision by using devices, technology, training and counseling so they can regain their independence and lead active lives.

Low vision professionals can develop and implement a rehabilitation plan that identifies strategies and assistive devices appropriate for a person’s particular needs. Vision rehabilitation services include training to use adaptive devices, such as reading machines, bioptic lenses and lighted magnifiers, as well as teaching new daily living skills.

For more information about the Weigel Williamson Center or to make an appointment at the Lincoln satellite low vision clinic, call 402-559-2463 or visit the website.