Tips for Talking With Your Eye Care Provider
Seeing an eye care provider when you have both vision and hearing loss can be a crucial step in protecting and making the most of your remaining vision. Being well-prepared ensures that the care you receive truly addresses your unique needs. This resource, adapted from the National Eye Institute, offers specialized tips to help you communicate effectively with your eye care provider and make your visit as productive as possible.
By following these suggestions, you’ll be able to advocate for yourself, ask the right questions, and gather the information needed to support your vision and independence. Remember, there are many ways to adapt and receive support to make the most of your visit. Let’s get started!
Selecting an Eye Care Provider
- Experience Matters: Ask if the provider has worked with patients with combined vision and hearing loss.
- If Not, Ask for a Recommendation: Providers may know someone experienced who can give you the support you need.
Share Information About Your Vision and Hearing Loss
- It’s All Connected: Your hearing loss can impact recommendations. Make sure to share both your vision and hearing status.
- Discuss Prognosis: Let them know if your hearing or vision is changing over time.
Plan Ahead to Make the Most of Your Appointment
- Write Down Your Questions: Planning ahead helps you remember what you need to ask. Bring a list!
- Ask for Clarification: Don’t hesitate to keep asking until you understand.
Important Questions to Ask
About Your Condition
- What condition do I have? What causes it?
- Am I legally blind?
- Do I have visual field loss? If so, what’s my visual field in each eye?
- Is my vision loss progressive? What should I expect?
About Tests
- Will I need tests? What are they for?
- Are there risks? When will I get results?
About Treatments
- What treatment do you recommend? What are the benefits and side effects?
- Are there alternative treatments?
About Assistive and Adaptive Technology
- Could I benefit from a low vision exam or tools like video magnifiers, screen readers, or screen magnification?
- Would orientation and mobility services be helpful?
- Are there apps or devices (like Seeing AI or OrCam) for accessing visual information with speech or Braille?
Record What You Learn
Taking Notes Helps You Remember:
- Write It Down or Record It: Take notes or use your phone to record your conversation.
- Bring a Support Person: A friend or family member can help take notes and ask questions.
- Ask for Printed Information: The provider can write down key points or print instructions for you.
Additional Resources:
- Watch the “5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Doctor Visit” Video: This video shares more tips to help you feel prepared.
