1. Relax. Be seated comfortably in an upright position before you begin reading.

2. Put reading material on a reading stand or clipboard. To keep the image clear, it is crucial that you maintain the same exact distance between yourself and the material. The ability to keep a consistent distance is the advantage of using a reading stand instead of a clipboard.

3. Position your light on the reading material while keeping in mind how close you will be to the page.

4. If you have been given a reading cap for your telescope, first make the barrel as short as possible. Then place the reading cap, all you need to do is adjust the focus by making the telescope barrel longer.

5. To locate your place on the page, put your finger where you wish to start reading. Then look through the telescope, find your finger, and begin reading.

6. Adjust your light to better illuminate your reading material. Avoid putting your head between the light source and reading material because this will cause a shadow on the page.

7. While reading a paragraph of print it may be helpful to look quickly back across the same line you just finished reading. Then drop down to the next line. This will prevent you from losing your place while reading.

8. Use plenty of short practice sessions: 5 minutes or less, three to four times per day in the beginning. Increase your reading time when you experience less eye strain and when you can read more comfortably.

9. Although your eyes may feel tired after reading, you cannot harm your eyes by reading. By reading daily, you will find that you will become less tired and will be able to increase your reading duration.

10. Remember that some items will be easier to read than others. Ease of reading depends on print size, lighting, color, spacing, and style.

11. Clean the telescope regularly with a soft, damp, lint-free cloth. Do not immerse it in water or wear it in the rain because condensation may develop, resulting in internal fogging. Avoid exposure to extremes in temperature and protect telescopes by always storing them in the box or case when not in use.

The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the LowVision.com Site.