Nadine McArthur writes that when a patient is contemplating a future without vision, there are still things that an eyecare professional can do to help with those next steps into the unknown.
“What happens next?”
It’s a question many patients don’t ask outright but one that lingers long after a diagnosis of permanent vision loss. While ophthalmologists focus on disease management, and orthoptists provide critical interventions to enhance functional vision, the journey towards adapting to daily life with low vision is often deeply personal, non-linear, and filled with uncertainty.
“The emotional weight of vision loss often unfolds over time, making each follow-up appointment a new opportunity for support.”
Patients leave appointments with their clinical information, yet many still struggle to understand how to maintain their independence, continue working, or stay connected in an increasingly digital world.
The emotional weight of vision loss often unfolds over time, making each follow-up appointment a new opportunity for support.
Orthoptists are specialists who engage with patients throught their vision loss journey and are uniquely positioned to identify when a patient could benefit from additional help.
Now, with one simple referral, orthoptists can extend their impact beyond the appointment setting, connecting patients to SeeWay.
SeeWay is an initiative of Guide Dogs, a comprehensive low vision support service offering practical guidance, no-gap psychology services, and digital skills training, all delivered in a way that meets patients where they are in their low vision journey.
Patients can maximise their functional vision and feel emotionally supported – right from the point of diagnosis.
Examples like the one below are common.
“My patient, Jan, had been managing well since her diagnosis of macular degeneration. I had made a referral to a low vision service and some suggestions around simple home adaptations. She was following her treatment plan closely but at her last follow-up appointment she was very teary. She didn’t feel ready to accept a full low vision service and she was sad and unsure of her future. She said she felt a bit isolated because her community transport options were limited and she is mostly at home managing by herself. She was struggling with more than just the physical aspects of her condition.”
– Orthoptist, NSW.
Previously, there were few options beyond offering reassurance. Many patients turn to Google after a diagnosis, only to be met with fear-inducing clinical information that emphasises worst-case scenarios rather than practical solutions.
SeeWay offers a safe, supportive space, shifting the focus from loss to ability, adaptation, and confidence.
This kind of holistic approach, where clinical care is supported by emotional and practical adaptation, ensures that patients like Jan are not just adjusting to vision loss but actively rebuilding their confidence and independence.
One referral to SeeWay provides:
• The first truly patient responsive digital platform with easy to read or listen-to practical strategies for adapting daily routines while maximising functional vision.
• No-gap counselling and group therapy to process the emotional impact of vision changes. Telehealth or in-person for easy accessibility.
• Digital literacy training to maintain connection, employment, and independence.
• Pathways to one-to-one services when wanted.
Some patients will engage immediately, while others may take time. SeeWay provides a gentle, safe space allowing patients to access support in their own home, at their own pace – without pressure, but with the reassurance that help is there when they need it.
SeeWay will have a presence at the upcoming International Orthoptic Congress in Brisbane, where it will present the results of its low vision pilot program – demonstrating how the holistic approach to low vision care has already strengthened patient outcomes for our client focus group.
SeeWay is designed to complement and enhance existing care, providing a direct pathway to resources that expand the scope of low vision support.
You can reach the organisation at seeway.com.au. It welcomes collaboration that ensures every patient has access to the tools, knowledge and confidence they need to adapt and thrive.
About the Author: Nadine McArthur is a highly experienced orthoptist and vision care specialist with expertise in low vision, medical device innovation, and public health. As marketing manager at SeeWay, she is dedicated to advancing low vision services and improving support for people with low vision.
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