Residual vision in glaucoma: regaining hope

Glaucoma is an eye disease that often progresses slowly, making it crucial to make the most of the remaining vision. We want to show you how people with glaucoma can activate their residual vision to improve their quality of life.

What Is Residual Vision?

Residual vision refers to the visual ability that remains in areas of the visual field that are not completely blind. These areas are often shown as “gray zones” on a visual field map. Prof. Sabel refers to them as “points of hope” because they hold potential for improving visual performance.

The Importance of Activating Residual Vision

Traditional ophthalmology often focuses on the loss of vision. However, it is essential to concentrate on what still works and how it can be improved. Activating residual vision can:

• Improve quality of life
• Strengthen self-confidence
• Promote independence

Methods for Activating Residual Vision

There are various methods to activate residual vision in glaucoma:

Vision Training:

• Visual restitution training (VRT) is a computer-based therapy in which patients are asked to detect light dots on a screen. This training helps direct attention to areas with residual vision and reactivates the nerve cells in those regions.
• Attention training for residual vision can be done at home, for example by wearing an eye patch and focusing on perceiving objects in areas with remaining vision.

Stimulation of Eyes and Brain with Electrical Impulses:

• The SAVIR therapy uses alternating current stimulation of the eyes and brain. This is a non-invasive method using weak electrical currents to reactivate nerve cells in the brain. It may help improve vision in areas with residual capacity.

Compensation Strategies:

• Eye movement training can help compensate for vision loss.
• Visual aids such as magnifiers and specialized lighting can make better use of remaining vision.

Psychological Support

• Dealing emotionally with vision loss is essential. Psychotherapy, support groups, and positive thinking can help you accept the situation and develop new perspectives. This reduces anxiety and stress, which in turn improves blood flow.
• Positive self-talk and setting new goals can help foster a constructive mindset.

A Holistic Approach

The eye does not function in isolation—it interacts with other body systems. Therefore, in addition to specific therapies, a holistic approach is important to unlock untapped potential:

Healthy Lifestyle:

• A balanced diet, regular physical activity, and stress reduction can help slow the progression of glaucoma. These practices relax muscles and improve circulation.

Regular Eye Examinations:

• It is important to follow your ophthalmologist’s recommendations and attend regular checkups to monitor intraocular pressure and assess the condition of the optic nerve.

Finding Hope Despite Vision Loss

Even though glaucoma leads to vision loss, there are ways to activate remaining visual capacity and improve quality of life. Through vision training, brain stimulation, compensation strategies, and psychological support, people with glaucoma can reactivate dormant nerve cells and lead a fulfilling life by enhancing their vision. It’s important to take a holistic approach and focus on what is still possible instead of what has been lost. Don’t become a slave to the fear of going blind. The future is optimistic.