Dr. Long, thank you for explaining the difference between low vision and legal blindness.
Low vision vs. legally blind—what’s the difference?
The terms “low vision” and “legally blind” are often used interchangeably, but they actually describe different levels of visual impairment.
Low vision refers to vision loss that can’t be fully corrected with glasses, contacts, or surgery. People with low vision may still have some usable sight, but they often need specialized tools like magnifiers, telescopic lenses, or assistive technology to make the most of it.
Legally blind is a specific definition used for legal and benefits purposes, not a diagnosis. In the U.S., a person is considered legally blind if their best corrected visual acuity is 20/200 or worse in their better-seeing eye, or if their peripheral vision is 20 degrees or less.
It is not either/or. You can have low vision and be legally blind. On the other hand, you can have low vision but not necessarily meet the legal requirements to be classified legally blind.
Dr. W. Jarred Long owns and practices at Midwest Low Vision in Bloomington, IN. Permission was given to use this article by Dr. Long