Visual impairment refers to a significant decrease in the ability to see, which can affect one or both eyes. This condition can range from mild vision problems, such as blurred vision, to complete blindness. Causes of visual impairment can include eye diseases (like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration), injuries, congenital conditions, and systemic diseases (such as diabetes).
Types of Visual Impairment:
- Low Vision: This condition cannot be fully corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. Individuals may have some usable vision that can assist them in daily activities.
- Total Blindness: Complete lack of vision. Individuals may perceive some light but not form images.
- Legal Blindness: A specific legal standard where a person's vision is 20/200 or worse in the better eye, with corrective lenses, or a visual field of less than 20 degrees.
Symptoms:
- Blurriness or haziness in vision
- Difficulty seeing well at night
- Trouble focusing on objects
- Distorted or wavy vision
- Loss of peripheral vision
Management and Support:
- Vision Rehabilitation: Includes training and tools to enhance remaining vision and improve daily functioning.
- Assistive Devices: Such as magnifiers, screen readers, or other technology designed to aid people with visual impairments.
- Support Services: Orientation and mobility training, counseling, and support groups can help individuals and families cope with visual impairment.
Prevention:
Regular eye exams can help detect problems early, and managing health issues (like diabetes) can prevent some conditions that lead to visual impairment.
If you have specific questions about visual impairment or are looking for information about resources, treatments, or support, feel free to ask!
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