Understanding the Differences Between Blindness and Visual Impairment.

Last updated on May 17, 2023

Understanding the differences between blindness and visual impairment is crucial in order to properly provide support and resources for those who have these conditions. While both blindness and visual impairment involve a decreased ability to see, blindness refers to a complete or near-complete loss of vision while visual impairment is a reduced ability to see, even with correction. This article explains the differences between these two conditions, the causes of vision loss, and the impact on daily life. It also provides information on resources and support available for those affected by blindness and visual impairment, including assistive technology, rehabilitation programs, and advocacy groups. With over 2.2 billion people globally having a near or distance vision impairment, it is important to understand these differences to provide the necessary assistance to those affected.

Blindness vs Visual Impairment: Understanding the Differences

Blindness and visual impairment are two related but distinct conditions. Blindness is a complete or nearly complete loss of vision, while visual impairment refers to a decreased ability to see, even with correction. The differences between blindness and visual impairment can be seen in the extent of the vision loss, the causes of the loss, and the impact on daily life

Extent of Vision Loss: How Blindness and Visual Impairment Differ

The extent of vision loss is the most obvious difference between blindness and visual impairment. Blindness is defined as a visual acuity of less than 20/200 in the better eye with the use of corrective lenses, while visual impairment is a visual acuity of 20/70 or less in the better eye with the use of corrective lenses. This means that a person who is blind has such severe vision loss that they are unable to perform many daily tasks, such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces. In contrast, a person with visual impairment still has some residual vision and may be able to perform some daily tasks with the use of visual aids or assistive technology.

Causes of Vision Loss: What Leads to Blindness and Visual Impairment

The causes of vision loss also differ between blindness and visual impairment. Blindness can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic conditions, traumatic injuries, eye diseases such as cataracts or glaucoma, and diseases that affect the entire body, such as diabetes or multiple sclerosis. Visual impairment can also be caused by these same factors, but it can also be caused by more minor vision problems, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness, that can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.

Global Impact of Vision Impairment: A Look at the Numbers

The World Health Organization (WHO), estimates that at least 2.2 billion people globally have a near or distance vision impairment. In at least 1 billion – or almost half – of these cases, vision impairment could have been prevented or has yet to be addressed.

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 12 million people 40 years and over in the United States have vision impairment, including 1 million who are blind, 3 million who have vision impairment after correction, and 8 million who have vision impairment due to uncorrected refractive error. Additionally, the CDC estimates that 6.8% of children younger than 18 years in the United States have a diagnosed eye and vision condition. Nearly 3 percent of children younger than 18 years are blind or visually impaired, defined as having trouble seeing even when wearing glasses or contact lenses.

Impact on Daily Life: How Blindness and Visual Impairment Affect Everyday Tasks

The impact of blindness and visual impairment on daily life can also differ. Blindness can have a profound impact on a person’s life, making many everyday tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, or navigating unfamiliar environments challenging. People who are blind can do many things independently, however they may require assistance from family members, friends, or paid caregivers to perform daily tasks. A person who is blind may also require mobility aids such as a white cane or guide dog to navigate unfamiliar environments.

Alternatively, a person with a visual impairment may find some tasks more difficult, but with the use of visual aids or assistive technology, many people with visual impairment are able to live independently and perform daily tasks with minimal assistance. However, visual impairment can still have a significant impact on daily life, particularly for older adults who may have trouble reading medication labels, seeing road signs, or performing other tasks.

Support and Resources for Individuals with Vision Loss

The impact of blindness and visual impairment can also extend to personal relationships and work life where it can affect their psychological and social well-being. A person who is blind or visually impaired may experience feelings of isolation, depression, or anxiety, and may have trouble forming and maintaining relationships with others. They may also face stigma and discrimination in the workplace and in their communities, which can limit their opportunities and negatively impact their quality of life.

There are various organizations and resources available to support individuals with blindness and visual impairment. These resources include rehabilitation programs, support groups, and assistive technology. Rehabilitation programs provide individuals with training and support to help them learn new skills and adjust to their blindness or visual impairment. Support groups offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals to connect with others who are facing similar challenges.

Assistive Technology: Tools to Help Individuals with Vision Loss

Assistive technology can help individuals with blindness or visual impairment complete tasks and engage in activities they enjoy, such as reading, writing, or using a computer.

Examples of assistive technology include screen readers, magnifiers, and Braille displays. Screen readers are software programs that convert text on a computer screen into spoken words, making it easier for individuals with visual impairment to access and use computers. Magnifiers are devices that enlarge text and images, making it easier for individuals with visual impairment to see. Braille displays are devices that allow individuals who are blind to access and interact with a computer using Braille, a system of raised dots that can be felt and read by touch.

Advocacy and Empowerment: Organizations Supporting Individuals with Vision Loss

In addition, there are organizations and advocacy groups, such as the National Federation of the Blind and the American Council of the Blind, that work to support and empower individuals with blindness and visual impairment. These organizations provide resources, advocacy, and support to individuals and families affected by blindness and visual impairment. They also work to promote policies and programs that support individuals with visual impairment and to raise awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with blindness and visual impairment.

Blindness and visual impairment are related but distinct conditions that differ in their extent of vision loss, causes, and impact on daily life. Both conditions can have a significant impact on a person’s physical and psychological well-being, but with proper support and accommodations, people who are blind or visually impaired can live fulfilling and productive lives.