The Centre for Sight Enhancement (CSE) is a clinical research and teaching facility which is exclusively concerned with the assessment and rehabilitation of visual disorders, visual impairments, visual disabilities and visual handicaps. The CSE has been designated by the Ontario Ministry of Health as the low vision service responsible for the assessment and provision of high technology sight enhancement systems to visually impaired Ontario residents under the Assistive Devices Program (ADP). An extensive array of optical low vision devices is available through the CSE, ranging from simple magnifiers to sophisticated lens systems. CSE equipment and instrumentation also includes a comprehensive assortment of adapted computer systems capable of customized large display and/or voice output.
Contemporary low vision service standards and assessment methodologies have been developed at the CSE. The centre is also involved in various technology transfer activities such as professional development seminars, co-operative contract research projects and consulting with business and industry employers seeking to adapt work environments for visually impaired individuals.
In recognition of the Centre's adherence to exceptional clinical service standards, the University of Waterloo's Centre for Sight Enhancement has received accreditation offered by the National Accreditation Council for Agencies Serving the Blind and Visually Handicapped (NAC). It is the only service to be accredited in Canada, and the second NAC-accredited service within any School of Optometry.