Syllabus Information

1.1. Introduction

Aims and scope

The subject of low vision is a four-month required subject, which is taught in the fourth year ofOptometry degree, in the second four-month period.

This subject belongs to the module Optometry (60 ECTS) and consists of 6 ECTS credits. 1.2 credits will be held from the field of ophthalmology and 4.8 credits optical area.

The credits are allocated as followed:

.           Theoretical credits

.           Practical credits

1.2. Recommendations to take this course

It is designed so that students who have studied more general subjects (within the module of Optometry, Pathology and Ocular Pharmacology and Optics), can apply their knowledge and adapt to the special characteristics of these patients.

Studying this subject, students develop analytical skills and are able to acquire the knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of optics and optometry, which are invaluable in order to become an efficient professional.

1.3. Context and importance of this course in the degree

The increasing number of patients with low vision in today's society, mainly due to the increased life expectancy and to medical advances, makes specialized training necessary to meet their visual needs. Among the professionals involved in the care of these patients, the role of Optical optometrist is of great importance, hence the need for this course.

The subject of low vision is a very specific subject for the kind of patients we will treat.

5.1. Methodological overview

Learning process designed for this subject is based on:

Master classes in big  groups and seminaries

Laboratory practices  in small groups but carried out individually or part by part.

Exercises, questionnaries and individual cases resolution via moodle

Personaliced tutorial

5.2. Learning tasks

Credits

 Knowing and be able to perform all test included in the low vision optometric exam.(1 Credit ECTS )

Correct understanding of the optometric evaluation test (0,5 Credits ECTS )

Practical cases resolution(0,5 Credits ECTS )

Knowing  the  visual aids existing in the market, as well as their rehab application. (0,5 Credits ECTS )

Make a report about the  low vision  optometric attention given. (0,5 Credits ECTS )

Visual aids assembly and adaptation correct evaluation (1 Credits ECTS )

Be able to perform a low vision complete report and transmitting functional applications caused in the visual daily life of a patient.

Practical sessions

Practices:

1. 1. Measurement of AV by choice of tests, aids in different pathological conditions
2. Measuring the refractive objective for different eccentricities. Autorefractometre eccentricity. Off-axis and / or radical low vision retinoscopy simulators.)
3.  Visual acuity at distance and near simulators and test different low vision sight. Contrast sensitivity in patients with low vision.
4. Objective and subjective in a patient with low vision refraction. Diagnostic procedures in low vision case management. Prismatic scanning based on the objectives.
5. Operation of optical aids. Spectacle mounted telescopes and microscopes
6. Actual patient.

5.3. Syllabus

Program

Part of Optometry:

1. The patient with low vision. History.

 2. Visual acuity in low vision.

3. Optometric evaluation of the patient with low vision.

4. Magnification.

5. Optics of low vision aids.

6. Low Vision Case Studies.

Part of Ophthalmology:

1. Low vision concept and epidemiology.

2. Age -related cataracts and low vision.

3. Other causes of low vision and glaucoma.

4.  Low vision of macular origin, causes and prescription I and II.

5. Optical aids in low vision.

6. Effects of visual impairment in everyday life. Rehabilitation of the visually handicapped.

5.5. Bibliography and recommended resources