Do you have summer vacation plans coming up? Summer is right around the corner and with it comes the chance to get outside, visit new places, and spend quality time with family and friends. If you’re living with low vision, you might face some extra hurdles, but that doesn’t mean you have to sit this season out. With the right tools and expert support, you can enjoy an active, independent summer.

Dr. Bissell has undergone additional training through the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS). This elite group of optometrists is specially trained to assess, fit, and adjust low vision aids. Low vision patients who work with Dr. Bissell can receive low vision support that can help you get ready to make the most of your travel adventures.

Smart Travel Tips for People with Low Vision

Planning a vacation, family visit, or day trip? Vision loss doesn’t have to slow you down. We can help you travel with more confidence by recommending portable, low vision-friendly tools like E-Scoop® eyewear, digital magnifiers, telescopic glasses, or custom reading aids that make navigating unfamiliar spaces much easier.

Travel Tips for those with Low Vision:

• Organize travel documents in large print or digital format
• Look up hotel and transportation accessibility in advance
• Notify airlines or bus services ahead of time if you need extra assistance

If vision challenges have made travel feel overwhelming, we’re here to help restore your confidence and independence.

Sun Protection That Works for Low Vision

Bright summer days can be tough on the eyes—especially if you have low vision—but UV protection is essential for everyone, regardless of vision status. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause both short-term discomfort and long-term damage to your eyes, increasing the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other vision problems over time.

For individuals with low vision, the brightness and glare of summer light can make it even harder to see clearly outdoors. Dr. Bissell’s low vision services offer custom-tinted eyewear designed to reduce glare, enhance contrast, and protect sensitive eyes from harmful UV exposure. Larger lenses or wraparound styles also provide added protection by blocking light from multiple angles.

Should You Wear UV Protection if You Don’t Have Low Vision?

But even if you don’t have vision loss, UV protection should still be part of your everyday eye care routine. We recommend that all patients:

• Wear sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection—even on cloudy days
• Use wide-brimmed hats to reduce direct sun exposure
• Seek shade during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
• Schedule regular eye exams to monitor eye health and early signs of UV-related damage

The doctors at Bissell Eye Care can help you select the right sun protection—whether you’re looking for everyday sunglasses, custom low vision lenses, or specialty outdoor eyewear. With the right protection, you can stay comfortable, preserve your long-term vision, and make the most of your summer.

To learn more about vision services at Bissell Eye Care, call our office at 724-443-6767 or 724-226-0444.

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD owns and operates Bissell Eye Care servicing Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. With two locations to treat patients, we offer evening appointments. Bissell Eye Care provides comprehensive eye examinations for the entire family beginning as early as 6 months, ocular disease detection and treatment, eyeglasses, sunglasses, activewear, contact lenses, and low vision examinations for those with significant vision loss. We accept most types of vision and health insurance plans. For more information, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown Office at 724-443-6767 or Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.