805Z Summer 2026 Low Vision Insights: Strategies and Resources...

What is low vision? Conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts are the most common issues in vision decline of the aging population. When the best glasses prescription can no longer correct vision due to these underlying conditions, this is low vision. If one can no longer do daily tasks such as reading regular print, recognizing faces, or driving, the loss of these visual skills can be life changing. Aging eyes generally need more light and tolerate less glare. In this class we will discuss how to use the best amount and color of light, as well as how to reduce glare. Simple adjustments may improve how well you can see. We will also discuss tools and gadgets that use the senses of hearing and touch as an option to accomplish daily tasks. Finally, we will give an overview of resources available through many organizations in Virginia and the D.C. metro area.

Tara Aziz is senior coordinator of low vision programs at the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington. She oversees resource centers, support groups, and outreach to empower people with vision loss. She has an MA in International Peace Studies and has NGO and UN experience.

Sandy Neuzil is the low vision community outreach facilitator at the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington, giving presentations on low vision. She co-chairs the Reston VIP Low Vision Support group and serves on the WMATA Accessibility Advisory Committee. She has a BA in Geology.