Low vision non-optical devices can include adaptations such as supplemental lighting, absorptive sunlenses, and colored acetate filters. They are usually recommended as part of a low vision examination [1] and can be used in combination with magnifiers and other low vision optical devices that can help with reading.
The most common low vision non-optical devices include:
Because proper lighting is critical for good vision, flexible-arm task lamps are the leading non-optical devices for many people.
The advantages of flexibe-arm task lamps are: 
The disadvantages of flexible-arm task lamps are:
Full spectrum lightbulbs provide the full range of colors found in sunlight, but are more expensive than regular bulbs. They can be purchased at any lighting store or ordered through catalogs. If you use a full spectrum bulb for long periods of time, you may need to take precautions with sunscreen, just as you would if you were outdoors in the sunlight.
You can find a variety of light bulbs and specialty lighting products in Sources of Products for Independent Living [2] and Find Lighting Products [3] on this web site.
An an electronic video magnifier is equipment for reading that consists of a stand-mounted or hand-held video camera that displays a magnified image on a video monitor, television screen, or computer monitor. It enables some individuals with low vision to read books, newspapers, magazines, and other print materials, such as medication labels, and to view photographs, charts, and illustrations.
Electronic video monitors are available in a variety of styles and magnification. They also tend to be expensive. Before you purchase one, consider having a low vision examination [1] with either an optometrist or ophthalmologist, who has had additional training in low vision, and discuss your desire to use an electronic video magnifier.
Try to find an agency or location in which you can have hands-on experience with a variety of machines before purchasing one. It can take a little while to learn how to use an video magnifier effectively; certain controls will likely be easier for you to use than others.
Take your time and check the particular features that work best for you. Some doctors, low vision clinics, and vision rehabilitation agencies offer loaner programs and/or resale of older but perfectly good machines, which could reduce the purchase price substantially.
You can find additional video magnifiers at Sources of Products for Independent Living [2] on this web site.
Absorptive Sunlenses/SunglassesAbsorptive lenses are special wraparound sunglasses that filter out ultraviolet and infrared light. The range of tints includes yellows, plums, green, blues, and browns.
When placed on the page, a translucent acetate sheet - especially yellow or marigold - can enhance contrast between the print and background, making words and letters appear darker and easier to read.
You can find absorptive sunlenses and acetate sheets in Sources of Products for Independent Living [2] and Find Lighting Products [3] on this web site.
 Acetate Filters |
 Yellow Overlay |
Using Optical and Non-Optical Low Vision DevicesBefore any optical or non-optical device can be effective and comfortable, you will need to:
Remember, to achieve the best results from the use of any low vision optical device [4], lighting from a flexible-arm task lamp can often prove to be essential.
It's also important to realize that it often takes time, patience, and much encouragement and support to learn how to use low vision optical devices effectively and efficiently.
Friends and family can play an important role in encouraging you to be patient, to experiment with lighting positions and intensities, and to practice under different lighting conditions, such as the time of day and indoor/outdoor situations.
Links:
[1] http://www.visionaware.org/what_is_a_low_vision_examination
[2] http://www.visionaware.org/sources_of_products_for_independent_living
[3] http://www.visionaware.org/find_lighting_products
[4] http://www.visionaware.org/reading-low-vision-optical-devices