Low vision is a term that describes significant visual impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medication or eye surgery.

Some examples of low vision include tunnel vision, blind spots, and legal blindness. In the US, a person is legally blind when their visual acuity is 20/200 or worse or a field of view is constricted to 20 degrees or less.

What causes low vision?
Eye diseases are common causes of low vision. Some of those diseases include:
• Macular degeneration
• Cataracts
• Birth defect
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Glaucoma
• Eye injuries
• Retinitis pigmentosa
• Light sensitivity

What can people do about low vision?

If you or someone you know has a visual impairment that impacts everyday living, we recommend seeing an eye care professional for a complete exam. If the vision cannot be corrected, that professional will refer you to a low vision specialist. You may also refer yourself. Low vision physicians provide comprehensive exams at our facilities on select days—call to schedule an appointment.

Low vision specialists help people with low vision determine the type and degree of vision loss and recommend low vision aids. [hyperlink to about page] In our Community Low Vision Centers, the physicians work closely with our low vision technicians who teach people to use these devices at no charge.