Definition of Legally Visually Impaired

The legal definition of blindness is eyesight less than 20/200 after all possible corrections, such as glasses and contact lenses. No legal definition for visual impairment exists, although the medical term "low vision" refers to eyesight 20/70 or less after corrections.

Visual Acuity

• Visual acuity measurements, such as 20/20, refer to the ability to see letters of certain sizes from a specific distance. Normal vision is 20/20. Vision measured at 20/70 means that a person can identify details -- or letters on an eye chart -- from 20 feet away that a person with normal vision can see from 70 feet away.

Legal Blindness

• People who meet the definition of legal blindness may still have some eyesight. For example, side vision that is 20 degrees or narrower in your better eye can also qualify you as legally blind. A person with a narrow field of sight experiences tunnel vision and cannot see peripheral objects.

Low Vision

• Low vision makes it difficult to read, drive or perform other normal activities, although people with low vision still have some useful sight. Most people who have low vision are elderly and have eye diseases, but low vision can develop at any age.

Considerations

• People who do not qualify for the legal definition of blindness, such as those with low vision, can still receive Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits if their vision problems prevent them from working.