Optical Outlets
Optical Outlets | Invisalign, Dental Fillings and CEREC

Here’s What It Means to Be Legally Blind

July 25, 2023

You may be surprised to learn that one million Americans are legally blind (also referred to as having “low vision” or being “impaired vision”). This means that their visual acuity is 20/200 or worse, even with correction. Being totally blind is not the same as being legally blind. People who are completely blind can’t see light or distinguish forms. Those who are legally blind, however, have eyesight that’s severely compromised without assistance from eyeglasses or contact lenses. But if your sight is vastly improved while wearing glasses or contacts, you’re not considered legally blind. 

The office of Optical Outlets takes pride in its outstanding optometric care, attention to detail and friendly professionalism. Our patients and customers receive excellent treatment and explanations of the best options available. Our state-of-the-art testing and diagnostic equipment check eye health and prescribe eyeglass lenses and contact lenses. Our selection of frames offers voluminous choices in eyewear. 

Optimal vision is measured as 20/20, which means you can see something clearly that’s 20 feet from you. But if you’re legally blind, your measurement is 20/200 in your stronger eye or your vision field is less than 20 degrees; if an object is 200 feet away, you have to stand 20 feet from it to see it clearly. 

The sight ability of people who are legally blind varies from person to person. Someone may be able to see things that are at a distance, but his peripheral vision is poor or nonexistent. The sight capabilities of another legally blind person may be the exact opposite. 

The office of Optical Outlets is at the forefront of new technologies to make the treatment of your eyes efficient and effective. We pride ourselves on our never-ending ability to fulfill our mission to provide superior patient experiences. We look forward to exceeding your high expectations. Please call us today for an appointment.