What Is Low Vision?
Low vision is vision loss that cannot be corrected with prescription eyeglasses, contacts, or surgery. It’s usually degenerative and doesn’t mean complete blindness, since some limited sight typically remains.
Request an AppointmentWhat Causes Low Vision?
The most common causes of low vision are age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetes. You can learn more about each of these conditions, along with others like hemianopsia, on our Low Vision Diseases page.
The Most Common Types of Low Vision Include:
Loss of central vision — A blind spot appears in the center of one’s vision.
Loss of peripheral (side) vision — The inability to see anything to either side, above, or below eye level, while central vision remains intact.
Night blindness — The inability to see well in poorly lit areas, such as theaters, or outside at night.
Blurred vision — Objects both near and far appear out of focus.
Hazy vision — The entire field of vision appears to be covered with a film or glare.
The Good News: Low Vision Can Often Be Improved
In many cases, the vision you have left can be improved through therapy and new technology, including specialized glasses and visual aids. A comprehensive low vision evaluation is the first step in determining exactly how your specific vision loss can be addressed.
Depending on your evaluation results, your personalized plan may include specialized low vision glasses, such as bioptic glasses or field expanding glasses, or a structured course of low vision rehabilitation therapy. Learn more about why ongoing rehabilitation is often considered the standard of care, or browse our complete range of low vision treatments. If you’re new to our practice, our New Patient Center outlines what to expect at your first visit.
What Is Low Vision: Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered low vision?
Low vision is vision loss that can’t be corrected with glasses, contacts, or surgery, typically leaving some limited sight rather than complete blindness.
What are the most common causes of low vision?
The most common causes are age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetes, though other conditions like hemianopsia can also cause low vision.
What are the main types of low vision?
The most common types include loss of central vision, loss of peripheral vision, night blindness, blurred vision, and hazy vision.
Can low vision be improved?
In many cases, yes. Therapy, specialized glasses, and other technology can help patients make significantly better use of their remaining vision.
Is low vision the same as being blind?
No. Low vision means significant vision impairment, but it typically does not include complete blindness, since some functional vision usually remains.
How do I find out what’s causing my vision loss?
A comprehensive low vision evaluation can help identify the cause of your vision loss and determine which treatments or devices may help.
