Have you ever wondered what it means to be legally blind? Legal blindness is a term used to describe a person's vision impairment that is so severe that it meets the criteria for legal recognition. This condition is not the same as total blindness, as legally blind individuals still have some vision, but it is significantly impaired.
To be considered legally blind, a person must meet certain criteria, which vary depending on the country or region. In general, however, legal blindness is defined as a visual field of less than 20 degrees, or a central visual field of less than 10 degrees. This means that the person's field of vision is significantly narrowed, and they may have difficulty seeing objects in their peripheral vision.
While legal blindness can be a significant challenge, it is important to remember that it does not mean that a person is completely unable to see. Legally blind individuals can still perform many tasks, such as reading, writing, and working, with the use of assistive devices and accommodations.
What is Legally Blind
Legal blindness is a term used to describe a person's vision impairment that is so severe that it meets the criteria for legal recognition.
- Narrowed Field of Vision
- Central Visual Field Loss
- Impaired Peripheral Vision
- Difficulty Reading and Writing
- Challenges with Mobility
- Use of Assistive Devices
- Legal Recognition
- Not Total Blindness
While legal blindness is a significant challenge, it does not mean that a person is completely unable to see. Legally blind individuals can still perform many tasks, such as reading, writing, and working, with the use of assistive devices and accommodations.
Narrowed Field of Vision
One of the key characteristics of legal blindness is a narrowed field of vision. This means that the person's ability to see objects to the sides (peripheral vision) is significantly reduced. In some cases, a person with a narrowed field of vision may only be able to see objects directly in front of them.
This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, such as walking, driving, and reading. People with a narrowed field of vision may also have difficulty recognizing faces and objects, and they may be more likely to bump into things.
The degree of narrowing of the field of vision can vary from person to person. Some people may have a field of vision that is only a few degrees wide, while others may have a field of vision that is somewhat wider. The severity of the narrowing can also affect a person's ability to perform certain tasks.
There are a number of causes of a narrowed field of vision, including:
- Glaucoma
- Retinitis pigmentosa
- Macular degeneration
- Stroke
- Brain injury
While there is no cure for a narrowed field of vision, there are a number of assistive devices and strategies that can help people with this condition to live full and productive lives.
People with a narrowed field of vision may use special glasses or contact lenses to help them see objects in their peripheral vision. They may also use canes or guide dogs to help them navigate their environment. Additionally, there are a number of computer software programs and assistive technology devices that can help people with a narrowed field of vision to read, write, and perform other tasks.
Central Visual Field Loss
Another common characteristic of legal blindness is central visual field loss. This means that the person has difficulty seeing objects in the center of their field of vision. This can make it difficult to perform tasks such as reading, writing, and recognizing faces.
- Macular Degeneration: This is a condition in which the macula, the central part of the retina, is damaged. It is the leading cause of central visual field loss in people over the age of 50.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: This is a condition in which the retina is damaged as a result of diabetes. It is the leading cause of blindness in people with diabetes.
- Stargardt Disease: This is a rare genetic condition that causes the macula to deteriorate. It is the leading cause of blindness in children and young adults.
- Optic Nerve Atrophy: This is a condition in which the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, is damaged. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including stroke, multiple gorillasclerosis, and glaucoma.
There are a number of assistive devices and strategies that can help people with central visual field loss to live full and productive lives. These include:
- Magnifying glasses
- Handheld video magnifiers
- Computer software that enlarges text and images
- Ass obnotive technology devices such as screen readers and talking computers
People with central visual field loss may also benefit from low vision rehabilitation, which can help them to learn how to use assistive devices and strategies to maximize their remaining vision.
Impaired Peripheral Vision
Impaired peripheral vision is another common characteristic of legal blindness. This means that the person has difficulty seeing objects to the sides (peripheral vision). This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, such as walking, driving, and reading.
- Glaucoma: This is a condition in which the optic nerve is damaged. It is the leading cause of blindness in the world.
- Retinitis Pigmentosa: This is a rare genetic condition that causes the retina to deteriorate. It is the leading cause of blindness in people under the age of 50.
- Macular Degeneration: This is a condition in which the macula, the central part of the retina, is damaged. It is the leading cause of central vision loss, but it can also cause peripheral vision loss in some cases.
- Stroke: This is a condition in which the blood supply to the brain is interrupted. It can cause a variety of vision problems, including peripheral vision loss.
There are a number of assistive devices and strategies that can help people with impaired peripheral vision to live full and productive lives. These include:
- Special glasses or contact lenses that help to widen the field of vision
- Mobility aids such as canes or guide dogs
- Computer software that enlarges text and images
- Assistive technology devices such as screen readers and talking computers
People with impaired peripheral vision may also benefit from low vision rehabilitation, which can help them to learn how to use assistive devices and strategies to maximize their remaining vision.
Difficulty Reading and Writing
People who are legally blind often have difficulty reading and writing. This is because they may have a narrowed field of vision, impaired peripheral vision, or central visual field loss. These conditions can make it difficult to see words and letters clearly.
- Use of Magnifying Devices: People with low vision may use magnifying glasses, handheld magnifiers, or video magnifiers to enlarge text and images.
- Assistive Technology: Computer software and assistive technology devices can help people with low vision to read and write. These devices can enlarge text, change the contrast of text and background colors, and read text aloud.
- Accessible Formats: People with low vision may also find it helpful to use books and documents that are available in accessible formats, such as large print, audiobooks, or electronic text.
- Adaptive Techniques: Some people with low vision develop adaptive techniques to help them read and write. For example, they may use a ruler or a guide to help them keep their place on a line of text.
Despite the challenges, many people who are legally blind are able to read and write with the help of assistive devices and strategies. With the right support, they can continue to enjoy the activities that they love, such as reading books, writing letters, and keeping a journal.
Challenges with Mobility
People who are legally blind often face challenges with mobility. This is because they may have difficulty seeing objects in their peripheral vision, which can make it difficult to avoid obstacles and navigate safely. They may also have difficulty seeing at night or in low-light conditions.
- Use of Mobility Aids: People with low vision may use canes, white canes, or guide dogs to help them navigate their environment. These aids can help them to detect obstacles and avoid hazards.
- Orientation and Mobility Training: Orientation and mobility training can help people with low vision to learn how to use their remaining vision and other senses to navigate their environment safely and independently. This training may include instruction on how to use a cane or guide dog, how to cross streets safely, and how to travel on public transportation.
- Accessible Public Transportation: Many cities and towns have accessible public transportation systems that can help people with low vision to get around. These systems may include buses, trains, and subways that are equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchairs and other mobility aids.
- Accessible Public Spaces: Many public spaces, such as parks, museums, and libraries, are also accessible to people with low vision. These spaces may have ramps, elevators, and other features that make them easier to navigate.
Despite the challenges, many people who are legally blind are able to live active and independent lives. With the right support and accommodations, they can travel, work, and participate in all aspects of community life.