What does it mean to be legally blind?

What does it mean to be legally blind? We've all heard the term "legally blind," and a lot of us probably never thought about what that meant. We just put it in the category of stuff other people probably know about, like diplomatic immunity or terminating with extreme prejudice. But it does have a definition, and it might matter a lot if you or a loved one happens to be it. Being legally blind can interfere with driving, getting your dream job as an airline pilot, or even routine stuff like getting insurance. It doesn't mean totally blind though, at least, not necessarily.

Defining legal blindness

Technically, you're legally blind in most states if you have 20/200 vision, which is the least acute vision you can measure on a standard eye chart. Basically, if that gigantic capital "E" on the top line of the chart is fuzzy for you, you might be legally blind. You could also be legally blind if you see fine — but only in a tiny window, as in cases of extreme tunnel vision. This usually means seeing 20 degrees or less without scanning. Think of that as both your fists held together at arm's length. Each fist is about 10 degrees wide.

Variations in criteria

All this is just a classification system, rather than something carved in stone tablets. Various agencies and governments have varying definitions of legal or statutory blindness, such as the Social Security Administration, which goes for 20/100, or the British government, which uses a system based on what prescription glasses you need.  

Causes of legal blindness

A lot of things can cause loss of visual acuity to the point of legal blindness for many people. Remember that about 85% of legally blind people still have at least some vision, and the reasons they see that way are as diverse as the people we're talking about.

Eye conditions

Lots of eye conditions can degrade vision to the point of legal blindness. Glaucoma, macular degeneration, astigmatism, diabetic retinopathy, and other stuff with Greek names can cause partial or full loss of vision. You might also have been born with a congenital condition like (here comes more Greek): anophthalmos (one or both eyes missing), microphthalmos (eyes are abnormally small), or coloboma (areas of tissue in the eye missing).

Injuries and trauma

Just about anything that can hurt you can also hurt your eyes, which may lead to diminished vision. Whatever it is that you're doing, you need to wear proper eye protection if there's the slightest chance you could get something in your eye.

Living with legal blindness

Being legally blind isn't the end of the world, and it's not even the end of living a fulfilling life. Here are some ways you can better manage with severely diminished vision.

Assistive technologies

Several assistive technologies exist to help you navigate the world as a legally blind person. Text-to-speech bots are getting more common, as is descriptive audio for TV. Screen readers, braille displays and various mobility aids are widely available, and they might even be partly or totally covered by your insurance, including Medicare Part B.

Daily challenges and adjustments

It's a big adjustment to go from fully sighted to legally blind. Even if you've had impaired vision your entire life, the slide into 20/200 or worse can be difficult. Reading and writing is the first place you might notice the change; however, navigating the world can also present hazards and challenges just in using public transportation. 

To get around this, you may have to adjust how you operate. Many public institutions offer braille pads on things like elevator buttons and public transit maps. The Americans With Disabilities Act requires places of public accommodation to make reasonable provisions for people who are legally blind. That could even include in-person assistance for things like pumping gas or ordering from a menu. 

Support and resources

It can be enormously helpful to hook up with support groups and various nonprofits while you're adjusting to legally blind life. These charities perform various services for legally blind people, from direct financial aid to education, rehabilitation, and advocacy:

• Seva Foundation
  
  
• Helen Keller International
  
  
• Foundation Fighting Blindness
  
  
• National Federation of the Blind
  
  
• Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired
  
  
• Hadley Institute for the Blind and Visually Impaired
  
  
• JBI International
  
  
• Blinded Veterans Association

Legal blindness vs. functional blindness

There's a difference between legal blindness and functional blindness. You need an eye exam from a professional to get a definitive diagnosis, but here's a quick rundown.

Functional blindness

Functional blindness basically means you can't see. This could be the same as legal blindness, or it could be better or worse, depending on your condition and medical history. While legal blindness is a more or less arbitrary line drawn for administrative and legal purposes, your perception of vision is, of course, your own. 

Navigating life with legal blindness

Almost anything can cause blindness or milder vision loss, but there's a lot of support available if you need it. Learn more about legal blindness from our awesome blog.

FAQ

What does it mean to be legally blind versus totally blind?

Total blindness is the complete loss of vision, while legal blindness is just a classification for a specific vision level.

Is it possible to retain sight if you're legally blind?

You can probably still see somewhat if you're legally blind. Most people described as legally blind still retain some eyesight.

How can I support a loved one who is legally blind?

You can support a loved one who's legally blind with compassion and understanding, help with rides and household chores, and by learning all you can about legal blindness from our brilliantly written blog.