This page provides information to educate those interested in learning more about the blind community and individuals with visual impairments. If you have other questions not addressed here, please contact us directly and we will provide further assistance.
Blindness & Visual Impairment
What does it mean to be “blind” or “visually impaired”?
There are several variations to the terms “blind” or “visually impaired”. Someone who is blind has complete loss of vision or sight. A blind individual may have a “haze” in their vision or be able to differentiate light perception. A visually impaired person has “low vision” meaning they have a decreased degree of vision that is not fixable by glasses. Visually impaired people may be able to differentiate colors, shapes, and light variations.
What causes someone to be blind or visually impaired?
Blindness can be caused by a genetic condition, disease, or injury. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in the nation which are commonly developed with the aging process but can develop due to genetics, metabolic disorders, and injury. Visual impairment can have various causes including but not limited to amblyopia (lazy eye), eye or brain injuries, and congenital birth defects.
How is blindness or visual impairment diagnosed?
Typically, diagnosis begins with an optometrist who may refer the individual to an ophthalmologist for a more thorough exam. The most common method to diagnosing visual impairment is by use of the Snellen Test (eye chart with the big letter ‘E’ at the top) and a visual field test which includes testing the peripheral vision. An ophthalmologist may also dilate the pupil(s) and use a slit lamp microscope to view the front of the eye. The ophthalmologist may also use a small lens to look at the backside anatomy of the eye. If further abnormalities are noted, the ophthalmologist may refer the patient to a specific anatomical specialist.
Are there any treatments for those who are blind or visually impaired?
If the individual is blind due to cataract(s) then an ophthalmologist can typically perform a routine eye procedure to remove the clouded lens and may replace it with an artificial lens. There are other operative services that may benefit an individual with blindness or visual impairment but not all conditions can be surgically repaired. People with mild to moderate visual impairment may also use prescription glasses or contacts. Sometimes visual rehabilitation may also be an option which provides therapy, low-vision training, and use of low-vision devices.
Can I reduce the risk of developing blindness or visual impairment?
Some forms of blindness or visual impairment are not preventable. Getting routine eye exams and contacting a provider if a change in vision or pain occurs is important. Protective eyewear and sunglasses can help to reduce the risk of eye related injuries.
How can I monitor my child’s vision?
Some common signs or symptoms to monitor for in infant/toddler ages are nystagmus (quick involuntary eye movement), wandering or drifting eyes, not making eye contact or following objects when moved in front of them, no reaction to bright lights, and white or cloudy pupils. An older child may have signs of holding objects close to their face, rubbing their eyes and being excessively tired, turning their head to look more out of one eye or squinting to see, clumsiness like bumping into objects or tripping, and pain in the eye. If you notice any of these signs, contact your healthcare or eye provider immediately. Some optometrists can begin performing basic routine eye exams as early as 6 months of age. An ophthalmologist can take referrals as early as newborn age.
General Information
What qualifies someone as “legally blind”?
Normal eyesight has a visual acuity of 20/20 which means they can visualize objects with clear vision at a distance of 20 feet. Low-vision is classified as an individual with visual acuity at 20/70 or less which means they can see object at 20 feet that “normal” vision can see at a range of 70 feet. Legally blind is classified as a visual acuity of 20/200 or poorer, so they see objects at 20 feet in distance that “normal” vision can see at 200 feet.
Why do blind/visually impaired individuals use a white cane?
Blind or visually impaired individuals use a cane as a tool for independent mobility. An all white cane alerts sighted individuals that the user is completely blind with no usable vision whatsoever. A white cane with a red bottom signals the user is visually impaired but has some usable vision. A white and red striped cane means the user is completely blind and/or deaf as well.
Why do blind/visually impaired individuals wear sunglasses?
Individuals with blindness or visual impairment wear sunglasses primarily as an aesthetic piece. Many blind or visually impaired people have discolored eyes, nystagmus (involuntary eye movement), or abnormally small eyes and wear sunglasses as a visual blocker so they do not feel uncomfortable about not being able to maintain eye contact with sighted individuals. The blind often feel they are easier to interact with and more approachable. Visually impaired people who have some usable visual aspect may wear sunglasses due to increased light sensitivities and to protect against physical injury from debris in the air they may not be able to visualize. Just like the white cane, sunglasses can be a signal of their impairment.
How can I guide someone who is blind?
Understanding that blind or visually impaired individuals have a heightened sensitivity to their personal space and are easily off put by feeling intruded. Approaching first, introducing yourself, and asking “Can I help you?” is a great start. If the response is yes, then ask how you can assist. If the answer is no, do not get offended but rather understand that blind or visually impaired people are able to do for themselves and feel great pride in doing so. Being a visual aid and using descriptive words is the greatest assistance for current and future situations.
What does a service animal, like a guide dog, do for a blind person?
Similar to the white cane, guide dogs are a visual tool for those who are blind or visually impaired. The dog may act as a pair of “eyes” for the handler and can assist with independent mobility. The dog guide can help with navigating surroundings, traveling to specific destinations, and can signal when it is safe to go forward and stop when it is not. Seeing eye dogs also alert to potential hazards and can guide to safety. Once the two are acclimated, the service animal can also detect body language and scent related to different emotions and feelings.
Is being blind or visually impaired a disability?
Technically, yes. If an individual meets medical criteria and are deemed blind or legally blind, they may be considered to have a disability. However, in the blind community, it is more common to hear that blindness or visual impairment is not a disability but rather an accessibility. Given the right tools and accessible devices, blind or visually impaired individuals can perform mostly any task such as sighted people can-they just need accommodations.