This article describes a device, the Visual Hand Display, used by pediatric ophthalmologists at the Children's Low Vision Center (Boston) to evaluate a child's postoperative visual functioning. The device consists of different sized black stripes on white circles and a face. (DB)

This article reports on a study of the methods that 21 ophthalmologists used to assess the visual acuity of children with multiple impairments and the difficulties they encountered. Additional means of assessing visual function and alternative means of communicating the results are suggested. (Author/DB)

Retinitis pigmentosa is a rod-cone dystrophy, commonly genetic in nature. Approximately 60-80% of those with retinitis pigmentosa inherit it by an autosomal recessive transmission (Brilliant, 1999). There have been some reported cases with no known family history. The symptoms of retinitis pigmentosa are decreased acuity, photophobia, night…

Parents of 536 children (ages 3-71 months) were shown to be remarkably good detectors of strabismus. Ninety-three percent of the parental identifications of strabismus were accurate while 99 percent of the nonstrabismic judgments were accurate. Older children (above age 2) were identified more accurately than those under 1 year. (Author/VW)

Eye diseases of the aged include diabetic retinopathy, senile cataracts, senile macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Environmental modifications such as better levels of illumination and reduction of glare can enhance an individual's ability to function. Programs to screen and treat visual problems in elderly persons are called for. (Author/JDD)

This article discusses trends in vision care and visual rehabilitation for elderly citizens, including: (1) the economizing effects of insurance and governmental policies regarding second opinions, generic medications, and use of less expensive equipment and personnel; (2) modern advances in cataracts and glaucoma; and (3) recommendations for…

Low vision children (ages 4-19, n=137) were screened, and 77 percent were advised to have comprehensive clinical evaluations or ophthalmology services. The visual capability of the referred children was determined, low vision aids were prescribed for 56 children, and the degree of successful utilization of aids was evaluated. (JDD)