20/20 vision is normal visual acuity measured at 20 feet. In general, we need a corrected visual acuity of 20/50 or better, in order to work, drive or read. 20/50 vision means that a person must stand at a distance of 20 feet in order to see what a person with normal vision can see at a distance of 50 feet away.
The definition of legal blindness is 20/200 or worse in the better eye with best correction possible. Visually impaired is defined as a corrected acuity of 20/70 or worse, but better than 20/200. Both visual conditions are considered to put an individual into the low-vision category. Ultimately, if someone has lost enough of their eyesight that they have difficulty with everyday activities, such as reading, writing, watching television, they have “low vision.”
The vast majority of people with low vision can be helped to function at a higher level with the use of low-vision devices. Common devices are hand-held magnifiers, high-powered eyeglasses, telescopes, and closed-circuit televisions (CCTV). These visual aids are available at our Optical Dispensary.
