Visual Impairment

Patients can be referred to an accredited optometrist either by the Hospital Eye Unit, Social Services, Dorset Blind Association, Bournemouth Society for the Visually Impaired, a GP or by other Optometrists. Patients can also self-refer.

There is no set level of VA for referral but a person may be considered to have low vision if they have an impairment of their visual function that is adversely affecting their quality of life but cannot be corrected through spectacles, contact lenses or medical or surgical intervention.

The initial low vision assessment includes refraction using the Bailey-Lovie Logmar reading and distance charts and Peli Robson contrast sensitivity charts where appropriate.

Following the Low Vision Assessment a range of hand held or stand, either illuminated or non-illuminated, magnifiers, or telescopic aids can be offered. This is done on an ‘on loan’ basis.

Advice is given on glare control and task lighting.

The service aims to enable a more independent lifestyle through provision of an appropriate LVA and/or referral and liaison with the Sight and Hearing Team at Social Services.

Training is offered together with follow-up, either face to face or by telephone, with regular low vision reassessment as required generally 6-12 monthly depending on severity of condition.

Opticians involved (Update in progress):

BOURNEMOUTH

Bernie Dexter
Bournemouth Vision Centre
63 Southbourne Grove
Southbourne
Bournemouth
BH6 3QU
Tel: (01202) 424491

DORCHESTER

FERNDOWN

Rob Jones
Parley Optometrists
127 New Road
Ferndown
BH22 8EB
Tel: (01202) 575759

HIGHCLIFFE

LYME REGIS

POOLE

Ian Underwood
Perry Optometrists
434 Ashley Road
Parkstone
Poole BH14 OAA
Tel: (01202) 741963

SHAFTESBURY

Anthea Cook
Optima Low Vision Services
Westminster Memorial Hospital
Abbey Walk
Shaftesbury
SP7 8BD

Tel: (01803) 869720

SWANAGE

WAREHAM

Jane Bell
CH Webster Opticians
Victoria House
10a North Street
Wareham BH20 4AF
Tel: (01929) 556062