The Frank Stein and Paul S. May Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation at California Pacific Medical Center helps people with low vision or partial vision loss. If you have a visual impairment, you may have difficulty performing daily activities such as reading, shopping, using a computer and preparing meals. Using the latest advancements in technology and training, doctors and therapists at the Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation develop a tailored program to assist you in maximizing your vision and leading a more independent life.
Low vision rehabilitation can help with:

• Writing financial transactions, including balancing accounts
• Preparing meals
• Engaging in hobbies such as sewing and knitting
• Reading more effectively using optical devices that compensate for vision loss
• Using computers and technology
• Safer mobility, including walking in familiar or unfamiliar areas

Vision rehabilitation can also help you learn compensatory visual skills, such as shifting images to a different part of the retinal anatomy. This training, combined with low-vision devices, can help you safely and independently complete daily activities that are now difficult because of vision loss.

Vision Enhancement

Many devices are available to help people with low vision function better. Our team will prescribe the best devices for your impairment, whether it is seeing objects at a distance, reading, watching TV or writing. Common devices or techniques that help make everyday activities easier include:

• High-contrast and large-number telephones, watches and remote controls
• Computers that can magnify printed material or pictures
• Talking watches, timers and medical equipment
• Bold-tipped markers for easy-to-read shopping lists

Getting Started

If you are having difficulty performing common daily activities because of vision loss, your doctor can make a referral to the Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation at CPMC.

Department of Ophthalmology
711 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 570
San Francisco, California 94115
Phone: (415) 296-2015
Fax: (415) 430-9748

Pacific Vision Foundation

The Pacific Vision Foundation is a key supporter and champion of the Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation. The Pacific Vision Foundation (PVF) is a charitable non-profit 501(c) (3) and the fundraising arm of the Department of Ophthalmology. PVF is committed to the prevention of blindness, the improvement of vision and the enhancement of life for those who see imperfectly. Contributions to the Pacific Vision Foundation can be directed to vision rehabilitation. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.

For more information or to help support the Low Vision Rehabilitation Program, contact us.

Pacific Vision Foundation
711 Van Ness Avenue, Suite 260
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: (415) 393-1225
Fax: (415) 430-9748