Low vision device requirements among children from two schools for the blind in Tamil Nadu.

Purpose: To identify children with low vision from two local schools for the blind, to provide low vision devices (LVD) to those who may benefit from it, and to encourage them to learn print.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted among children from two local schools for the blind. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was done using the Snellen chart. Children with BCVA of counting finger (CF) 1/2 meter or more in the better eye underwent low vision assessment. Distant vision was assessed using the Feinbloom chart and near vision was assessed using the Lea symbol chart. Low vision devices (LVD) were prescribed as required.

Results: Among 185 children enrolled, 31 children had BCVA of >CF ½ meter. Using a telescope, distant vision was better than 3/36 in 48.4%, 3/36-3/12 in 16.2%, and 3/9.5 to 3/3 in 35.4%. Among 23 children who read 1M at <10 cm, 22.6% could read 0.6-0.8M, and 25.8% could read 1M using LVD.

Conclusion: Regular screening of children in schools for the blind could identify children who might benefit from LVD. A review of protocols for the entry of children in schools for the blind by screening these children by a specialist team prior to admission should be made mandatory.