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Visual impairment is the functional loss of vision. Based on data from a [http://www.nichcy.org/ National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities], "the terms partially sighted, low vision, legally blind, and totally blind are used in the educational context to describe students with visual impairments. They are defined as follows:

  • Partially sighted indicates some type of visual problem has resulted in a need for special education;
  • Low vision generally refers to a severe visual impairment, not necessarily limited to distance vision. Low vision applies to all individuals with sight who are unable to read the newspaper at a normal viewing distance, even with the aid of eyeglasses or contact lenses. They use a combination of vision and other senses to learn, although they may require adaptations in lighting or the size of print, and, sometimes, braille;
  • Legally blind indicates that a person has less than 20/200 vision in the better eye or a very limited field of vision (20 degrees at its widest point); and
  • Totally blind students learn via braille or other non-visual media.

    Visual impairment is the consequence of a functional loss of vision, rather than the eye disorder itself. Eye disorders which can lead to visual impairments can include retinal degeneration, albinism, cataracts, glaucoma, muscular problems that result in visual disturbances, corneal disorders, diabetic retinopathy, congenital disorders, and infection."

    • Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB)
    National UK charity providing a good range of information for blind or partially sighted people.

    British Wireless for the Blind Fund
    Registered charity who provide adapted radio equipment on a free permanent loan basis to eligible registered blind people. On-line catalogue of suitable sets for those who can purchase one.

    Action for Blind People
    UK charity. Site contains a good range of information covering the practical aspects of dealing with visual impairment and blindness.

    The Eyeless Trust
    A charity offering information and support for families affected by Anophthalmia, Microphthalmia or Coloboma.

    Aspire Consultancy
    Offers assessment and training services for visually impaired people, and corporate clients. Also supplies appropriate specialist technology and software.
    Health: Conditions and Diseases: Eye Disorders: Blindness
    Regional: Europe: United Kingdom: Health: Conditions and Diseases: Eye Disorders
    Regional: Europe: United Kingdom: Health: Disabilities
    Regional: Europe: United Kingdom: Health: Medicine: Medical Specialties: Ophthalmology





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