Main Menu Age Related Macular Degeneration Cataract Diabetic Retinopathy Glaucoma Refractive Error Eye Diagram Glossary   Our Other Sites Bookstore Directory Other Resources Vision Health Resources Vision Loss and Blindness Resources Search All Sites Site Map Vision Impairment & Blindness The term "blindness" can have many connotations and is difficult to define precisely. To many people, blindness refers to the complete loss of vision with no remaining perception of light. However, this ultimate form of complete blindness is rare. Far more people have a permanent loss of some, but not all, of their eyesight. The severity of vision loss can vary widely and may result in equally varying degrees of functional impairment. "Legal blindness" represents an artificial distinction and has little value for rehabilitation, but it is significant in that it determines eligibility for certain disability benefits from the Federal Government. In the United States, it is typically defined as visual acuity with best correction in the better eye worse than or equal to 20/200 or a visual field extent of less than 20 degrees in diameter. These overly simple criteria for visual impairment are far from comprehensive in defining the visual function deficits that can cause difficulties for daily living tasks. Vision impairment is defined as having 20/40 or worse vision in the better eye even with eyeglasses. People with the least degree of vision impairment may still face challenges in everyday life. For instance, people with vision worse than 20/40 cannot obtain an unrestricted driver's license in most states. Almost everyone with blindness or vision impairment can benefit from vision rehabilitation that can help make the most of whatever vision remains. Unfortunately, blindness and vision impairment represent a significant burden, not only to those affected by sight loss, but to our national economy as well. It is estimated that blindness and vision impairment cost the federal government more than $4 billion annually in benefits and lost taxable income. Blindness, as defined above, affects more than one million Americans age 40 and older. The visually impaired, including those who are blind, total more than 3.4 million older Americans. Blindness affects Blacks more frequently than Whites and Hispanics. Hispanics, however, have higher rates of visual impairment than other races. The prevalence of blindness and vision impairment increases rapidly in the later years, particularly after age 75. Available tables: Estimated Number of Vision Impaired Individuals (including blind) in the U.S. Population Aged 40 and over by State, Race and Sex The tables are located on the following page: Estimated number of vision impaired individuals Notes: The page opens in a new window. All brands and product names are trademarked or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Copyright of syndicated content belongs to it’s respective author or news organization. Original content (including "look and feel") Copyright © 2001-2006  •  Vision Loss and Blindness Resources  •  All rights reserved.