Low Vision Services in Encino, California

bioptic telescope glasses for low vision

Low Vision Optometrist in Westchester, Los Angeles, California

Do You Suffer From Vision Loss?

Have You Been Told “Nothing More Can Be Done?”

If you or a loved one are having problems seeing and doing the things you enjoy, Dr. Ashcraft can help. If you have been told by your eye doctor that a change in your eyeglass prescription will not help you see better, call Dr. Ashcraft. He is trained to design special glasses that can make a difference.

Learn more about how Dr. Ashcraft can help you read,
drive, watch tv, see faces, and use a computer or phone.

How to Drive Safely With Bioptic Telescopic Glasses

How To Watch Television and Recognize Faces

How To See Your Phone, Tablet and Computer

How To Read Mail, Magazines, & Other Printed Material

When a Low Vision Patient is Told Nothing More Can Be Done

Have you been told nothing more can be done for your vision?
Are you struggling to read, see faces across the room or view television?
Do you feel you are losing your independence by not being able to drive?
Are you unable to do hobbies like playing cards or use the computer?
Do you have new glasses that are not much better than you old ones?

Hi, I’m Dr. Harold Ashcraft, a low vision optometrist.

With new technology and special vision aids, I help people like you read again, see faces and television, engage in your hobbies again, and in many cases, drive.

It hasn’t always been that way.

Years ago, my own grandmother was struggling with macular degeneration and she came to me for help. She wanted to read, play the organ, and see the faces of her many grandchildren.

I was able to help her read better. But at that time, like most other optometrists, I did not know about all of the possible low vision aids and devices that could help her. I did not have samples to show her.

So, I told my grandmother what you may have been told, that nothing more could be done. I told her I couldn’t help her do the things she wanted to do, like play the organ or see faces.

I didn’t know it then, but I was wrong. Many possibilities existed for her.

If my grandmother were alive today, I would tell her that I could help her. I would show her how she could continue to do the things she loved to do.

If poor vision is holding you back from doing the things you want to do, give me a call at 888-648-9525 to set up a free consultation.

Dr. Ashcraft Helps Doctor Return to Normal Life Activities

Driving, Seeing Television and Faces with Telescopic Lenses

Low Vision FAQ

1. What does low vision mean?

Low vision means vision loss that cannot be corrected with standard eyeglasses, medication, contacts,
or surgery.

2. What are some common causes of low vision?

Some common causes of low vision are macular degeneration, glaucoma, strokes, diabetic eye disease,
inoperable cataracts, Stargardt’s Disease, juvenile macular degeneration, albinism, and Retinitis
Pigmentosa.

3. How do macular degeneration glasses work?

Macular degeneration glasses work by providing more magnification than standard glasses to help
people read and do other near tasks such as seeing cell phones and computers.

4. Can people with low vision drive in California?

In many states, including California, people with low vision (mild to moderate central vision loss but
with good side vision) are permitted to drive, often with the help of bioptic telescopes.

For A Free Phone Consultation Call 888-648-9525

Encino, California Highlights

Encino, California is full of history and was originally acquired by the Spanish Portola expedition in 1769. The original name of Encino was “El Valle de Santa Catalina de Bononia de Los Encinos,” given to it by a missionary of Franciscan decent. The name of the missionary was Juan Crespi. As time progressed the name was shortened to just Encino. In 1845 there was a large land grant that handed the land over to three Mission Indians by the governor at that time.

The considerably low population density in comparison to the county is around 41,000 people stretched across 9.5 square miles. This is below average for the city and county. The current age average for the city and county is considered to be older than average with the age of 42. There are an above average number of residents that are 50 or older. Roughly 10 percent of the population are military veterans, which is really high for the Los Angeles County.

Geographically, Encino is bordered on the north and south by Reseda and Brentwood. Additionally the Santa Susana Mountains and Sepulveda Basin are regions located very close to Encino. Encino is sandwiched from the east and west by Sherman Oaks and Tarzana. More than 70 percent of the population are considered well off enough to be home owners. This could be due to the city having a county high average individual income.

The local economy of Encino is stimulated mainly by medical positions, social works, and professional jobs such as real estate and legal sectors. Out of the approximate 3,800 businesses located in Encino, their average annual payroll tops $1 billion. This is remarkably high considering these businesses employ around 27,000 Encino residents. This large number can be due to Encino being the headquarters of Enoki Films USA, a film production company.

Encino, California has quite a lot to offer as far as nature and heritage is concerned. The city is home to a 5 acre park called the Los Encino’s State Historic Park, which is a California State Park. The park has a self-guided tour located in the visitor’s center. The park in Rancho El Encino, includes an 8 room original De La Ossa Adobe, a double story Garnier building made of limestone, and a pond.

The Los Encino’s State Park offers tours of the Ossa Adobe historical landmark for free as well. Aside from being a historical site, the park offers picnic areas, exhibits and programs, tours, interpretive exhibits, and family programs.

In Encino, California you will also find the Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area, consisting of multiple sports centers, multiple parks, a garden center, and a few golf courses. There is a sports complex that is located within the Sepulveda Dam Recreation Area and offers lighted baseball and football fields, lighted tennis, handball, and baseball courts, as well as an indoor gym. Encino also offers a park that lets your furry friends run wild. There are many historical locations and parks that provide a lot of recreational and educational fun.