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Geriatric optometry differs from the more usual form of optometric care in that the geriatric patient suffers specific and characteristic visual symptoms and problems on the one hand, and has a reduced capacity for dealing with them on the other. This paper presents the origin and nature of the important problems of visual functioning for the geriatric patient and the presently available means of coping with them. There is a great need and a great scope for these services.

The growth and present format of Low Vision Clinics are summarised in terms of locations, funding, personnel, procedures and services rendered. Some shortcomings in the services provided are discussed. The current neglect of specific and effective optometric care of the aged, i.e. Geriatric Optometry, is highlighted and a concept of Geriatric Optometry is elaborated. Economic and cost‐effect problems associated with low vision and geriatric optometry are presented.

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