Low vision or partial blindness refers to a condition where the person has a severe reduction in vision which cannot be corrected with the help of spectacles or contact lenses.
It also refers to when they cannot see clearly in limited light.
As defined in the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participation) Act, 1995, visual impairment "refers to a condition where a person suffers from any of the following conditions:
Total absence of light; or
Visual acuity not exceeding 6/60 or 20/200 (Snellen) in the better eye even with correction lenses; or
Limitation of the field of vision subtending an angle of 20 degree or worse."
Causes
Usually, this condition is caused due to multiple eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataract, macular degeneration, & so on. This can also be caused due to problems in the brain from strokes, premature births, or trauma. In children, this can be a result of infections, injuries or lack of right nutrition. Vitamin A deficiency is a widespread cause among children in developing countries.
Prevention
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 80% of visual impairment is preventable. Hence, it is vital that we take the right measures when we can.
To prevent this condition, one must regularly go for eye check-ups.
Sanitization rules should be set and followed.
A healthy intake of Vitamin A should be promoted too.
Explaining visual impairments to children
Giving children accurate information is necessary to clear misconceptions and help them treat others with kindness and respect. This is a simplified summary that can be used with children.
Children may be blind by birth or vision problems may occur due to an illness or an accident. Children with blindness may be able to see partially or may be completely blind. Some children may benefit from glasses and others will not. Children who are blind benefit from learning in Braille. It is a specialized system that helps children read independently. Children who are blind can read, learn, and play, but with some modifications and support from teachers and parents.