Family, Friend and Carer - A Guide - Macular Degeneration ...

The Support TeamIt is important for a carer to recognise that they are part of a support team. The teamis centred on the person who requires care in partnership with the primary carer andfurther supported by the family, health care professionals, low vision services, supportgroups and other community services.A simple model which can help identify the support team may look like this:Eye CareProfessionalFriendsCarersAssociationLow VisionServicesSupportGroupsPersonwho haslow visionPrimaryCarerFriendsGPOtherFamilyMembersFamilyGPA carer is never alone in providing assistance to their family member, friend or client. Acarer is part of an extended support team.Eye Health Care ProfessionalsEye Health Care Professionals are responsible for helping to diagnose and manage eyedisease and low vision. The following provides a description of the tasks undertaken byeach type of eye professional.OphthalmologistAn ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who has completed extra training in eyes.Ophthalmologists perform eye exams, treat disease, prescribe medication and performsurgery. They may also write prescriptions for spectacles and contact lenses. Someophthalmologists have further specialisation as a retinal specialist.OptometristAn optometrist performs eye exams for both vision and health problems, prescribesspectacles and fits contact lenses. Some optometrists have further specialisation in lowvision rehabilitation. They can diagnose eye diseases and refer patients to ophthalmologistsfor treatment. For people with low vision, the optometrist can provide practical advice onhow to maintain quality of life and independence.OrthoptistAn orthoptist is a health care practitioner who assesses vision and eye movements.Orthoptists most commonly work in eye clinics with an ophthalmologist and assist indiagnostic procedures and treatments.Family, Friend and Carer - A Guide 11