Understanding Vision Impairment, Blindness, and "Legal Blindness"

In the United States, approximately 7 million people have some degree of vision loss, including 1 million with blindness. Vision impairment can impact overall quality of life, including:

Increased risk of depression
Fewer job opportunities
Increased risk of injuries and falls
Impacted social skills and academic performance, in children

However, having a vision impairment does not have to stop you from having a high quality of life and independence. Continue reading to learn the differences between vision impairment, legal blindness, and total blindness, and how you can maintain independence with vision loss.

What Does “Legal Blindness” Mean?

Legal blindness is defined by government agencies for eligibility of individuals with severe vision impairments to receive certain benefits and services.

A person is considered legally blind if, when wearing their glasses or contacts, their:

Vision in the better eye is 20/200 or worse, OR
Side vision (visual field) is 20 degrees or less

People with legal blindness can receive Social Security Disability benefits and assistance with education, job training, transportation, living expenses, and more.

What Is “Vision Impairment”?

Vision impairment or low vision is the reduced ability to see clearly even when wearing glasses or contact lenses. Vision impairment can also occur with the loss of side or peripheral vision.

For the majority of those with vision impairment, some vision usually remains. Total blindness occurs in only about 5% of those who have vision impairment.

What Does “Total Blindness” Mean?

Total blindness is generally defined as the inability to perceive light, shapes, or form. It can be caused by various factors, including eye diseases, injuries, congenital conditions, and neurological factors.

How Can I Maintain Independence with Vision Loss?

There are resources available to help you maintain independence while living with vision loss.

Assistive technology/low vision devices, such as magnifiers, computer software, tablet and smartphone apps, and artificial intelligence (AI)
Low vision rehabilitation or occupational therapy helps you learn strategies to manage vision impairment and maintain independence to manage daily activities
Orientation and mobility training helps you develop skills and techniques for safe, effective, and efficient travel
Transportation and community support services through patient-centered resources
Other services:

The Social Security Administration offers Social Security Disability benefits and assistance with education, job training, transportation, living expenses, and more

State Vocational Rehabilitation Services and Commissions/Agencies for the blind can also assist with job-related resources to remain productive and employed

Schedule an eye exam to stay informed about your vision and eye health. An eye exam can help with early detection for earlier treatment and better outcomes.

What is Visual Impairment?

What Does “Legal Blindness” Mean?

A person is considered legally blind if, when wearing their glasses or contacts, their:

What Is “Vision Impairment”?

What Does “Total Blindness” Mean?

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