When we see people with visual impairments in our clinic, one of the most frequently asked questions is, “How can I see the television more clearly?”
Often, we place the TV in one corner of the room and the sofas or armchairs in the opposite corner. Many of us were told as children that sitting too close would give us “square eyes.” This is one time you can safely ignore that advice!
The simplest way to see the television more clearly with a visual impairment is to move closer. Halving the distance to the screen effectively doubles its size, creating natural magnification. And don’t worry, you won’t get “square eyes.”
If one eye has better vision than the other, try positioning the TV slightly towards the side with stronger vision. Also, consider the lighting in the room: if it’s too dark, the screen glare may be uncomfortable; if it’s too bright, contrast can be lost. Aim for even, balanced lighting, avoid pools of light from table lamps that can make the screen harder to see.
We can also reassure you that moving closer to the television will not make your vision worse. In fact, it’s far better to sit closer and see clearly than to strain your eyes from further away.
Another common question is, “Should I buy a bigger TV?” Not necessarily. A larger screen can sometimes make it harder to see the whole picture. Before spending money on a bigger TV, try moving closer first.
For more practical tips on living with sight loss, call us on 01302 965195.