Photo: Low vision patient and Lincoln resident Peggy Campbell uses telescopic glasses when she drives. Campbell was fitted with the specialty glasses and taught how to use them through the Weigel Williamson Center for Visual Rehabilitation at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.
The Weigel Williamson Center for Visual Rehabilitation at the University of Nebraska Medical Center 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. To make an appointment call 402-559-2463.
Low vision affects nearly 2.9 million Americans and is 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 at: www.unmc.edu/lowvision.
Through world-class research and patient care, UNMC generates breakthroughs that make life better for people throughout Nebraska and beyond. Its education programs train more health professionals than any other institution in the state. Learn more at unmc.edu and follow us on social media.
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