Microphthalmia

Young girl close-up with ocular prosthesis.

What Is Microphthalmia? Microphthalmia is a condition in which one or both eyes are unusually small. An individual with microphthalmia may have accompanying birth defects, as microphthalmia is a genetic mutation. Genetics Home Reference states that one-third to one-half of people with microphthalmia have it as a component of a syndrome (range of related birth defects). How […]

Achromatopsia in Children

Umbrella in different colors among other black and white umbrellas as light shines through clouds.

What Is Achromatopsia? Congenital achromatopsia is a hereditary eye condition that adversely affects the development of, to a varying degree, retinal “cones”; cones are photoreceptor cells that convert light into electrical images that are carried to the brain and interpreted as visual images. Cones work in bright light and are responsible for color perception, sharp […]

Engaging Hobbies and Interests

  As your child continues exploring new social settings and experiences, they should try new or different hobbies and interests. Hobbies play a vital role in the development of a young adult, and they’re just as important for a young adult who is blind or low vision. Hobby engagement provides an outlet for self-expression, supports […]

Cultivating Independence as a Journey, Not a Destination

Child washing dishes

1: The I-word and I  Confession time. I’ve always felt a little uneasy about “the I-word,” “independence,” especially the idea of “making” someone more independent. It’s a word that too often comes loaded with unfounded assumptions, critical comparisons, and inflexible expectations.  Take the mother who said to me admiringly, “I wish my daughter could be […]

Dry Eyes

Person putting eye drops into their eye

What Is Dry Eye? Dry eye is a condition in which the tears do not sufficiently hydrate the cornea. The cornea is a transparent dome-shaped tissue that forms the front part of the eye. It functions as a window and allows light to enter the eye. What Are Tears? The tear film of the eye […]