What is the legal threshold for blindness?

The legal threshold for blindness is established as 20/200 acuity. This means that a person has a visual acuity of 20/200 or worse in their better eye with corrective lenses, indicating that they see at 20 feet what a person with normal vision would see at 200 feet. This definition is used to determine eligibility for various services and benefits, such as rehabilitation programs or disability assistance.

In practical terms, this threshold captures significant visual impairment, which impacts a person's ability to perform everyday tasks. The determination of legal blindness does not solely rely on acuity measurements but can also involve considerations of visual field, which is particularly relevant for defining a comprehensive understanding of vision impairment. Overall, recognizing 20/200 as the legal threshold is essential for understanding disability rights and access to supportive services in society.