Your low vision device is called a handheld telescope. Telescopes can be handheld, clip-on, or mounted onto glasses. A telescope will help you see things better at a distance.

Use the telescope with your right or left eye. The other eye may be covered with a patch. The purpose of the patch is to allow you to concentrate on what you are seeing with the telescope. Patching will not harm your eyes. If you have a binocular telescope you will be using both eyes.

DO NOT TRY TO WALK AROUND WHILE LOOKING THROUGH YOUR TELESCOPE. YOU CAN EASILY TRIP AND FALL IF YOU DO SO.

Start by locating the object you wish to see without looking through the telescope. Make a V with the forefinger and thumb of your right or left hand. Put the telescope into the point of the V. The rubber eyecup attached to your telescope can be brought up to your eye, with the telescope pointed toward the target you wish to view.

As you hold the telescope, rest your thumb or forefinger against your face. This technique will steady the device and block out the surrounding light. Hold the

1telescope as close to your eye or glasses as possible. Turn the focusing ring of your telescope with your right or left hand until the image is as clear as possible. The image should be circular if the telescope is properly aligned with your eye. To further steady the telescope, brace your elbow against your body or hold your elbow with your free hand. Move your head and telescope together when scanning to see an entire object or moving target. Always move slowly, because the telescope makes things appear to pass by quickly. If the distance between you and the object changes, you may need to refocus. If there seems to be a problem with lighting or glare, try repositioning yourself.

Practice for approximately 5-10 minutes several times a day in the beginning. Remember that some eye strain, muscle tightness, and possibly even a headache may occur. These symptoms are occurring because you are exercising your eyes in a new way. If these symptoms persist, you may want to contact one of our doctors.

Remember, learning to use your handheld telescope may take some time, practice, and patience.

Care of your telescope: Clean your telescope with a clean, damp, lint-free cloth. Do not clean your telescope with chemicals or immerse it in water.

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.