One of the most frustrating aspects of low vision is a feeling of being isolated from the rest of the world because you're not able to function outside the home as well as others.

However, there are aids available that can make life outside the home a welcome experience.

Some people with low vision find a white cane to be very helpful, not just for getting around, but also for identifying to others that they have a visual impairment that may not otherwise be obvious. There are different varieties of white canes to suit the needs of different users, including collapsible travel canes, white support canes, and long travel canes. While some people are not comfortable using a white cane, most realize that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, and use the white cane as a mobility tool and identifier.

Telescopes can be used to identify street signs and addresses. Some people who are blind or visually impaired will be more open to the idea of independent travel than others. If you're a caregiver, you should be sensitive to the wishes of the person receiving care. You may find that after a period of adjustment, the person has come to terms with vision loss and is now more willing to run errands without your help.

Magnifiers are among the most useful low-vision aids and come in pocket-size, stand-mounted, handheld, and illuminated models. Many people with low vision find that they need a few different magnifiers ? one for fine detail tasks, one for watching television, and one for reading street signs (like a telescopic device that makes distant objects appear closer). Magnification technology is constantly being updated, and new products continually appear on the market.

Changing one's lifestyle is difficult and requires flexibility and patience, from both the caregiver and the person receiving care.