Why follow up is important
People who use magnifiers or telescopes should be followed up regularly to make sure the product still meets their needs.
Follow up is important because:
- Some causes of low vision mean a person’s vision will get worse over time.
- Peoples’ needs and activities change, so they might need additional teaching or a different product.
Instruction
It is particularly important to follow up children regularly because visual needs can change with age. Children should be followed up every three to six months.
Adults should be followed up every six to twelve months to check that the device is still meeting their visual needs and that they are using it correctly.
What to do during follow up
Collect information
When carrying out follow up, collect information to find out if the magnifier or telescope is still meeting the person’s needs.
The following questions will help you to understand whether the magnifier or telescope still meets the person’s needs and is in good working order:
- Is the magnifier/telescope helping you to do the activities you want to use it for?
- Do you have any problems using your magnifier/telescope?
- Do you have any questions about your magnifier/telescope?
If the person is not using their magnifier or telescope, or has problems using it, is important to find out why. You can then find a solution together.
Observe the person using their product
Instruction
Ask the person to show you how they are using their magnifier or telescope. This will help you to find out if they need any further training.
Check the condition of the magnifier or telescope
- Is the lens scratched or broken?
- Is any other part of the product broken or worn out?
Tip
Remember most magnifiers and telescopes cannot be repaired if broken, so a replacement is usually necessary.