REDUCED VISUAL ACUITY

A decrease in visual acuity affects clarity of vision and thus has an impact on the ability of patients to undertake many activities.

Examples of the impact of visual acuity loss in patients with AMD Visual acuity Disability estimates

Visual Acuity

Disability Estimates
NEAR NORMAL VISION

20/30
20/40
20/50
20/60
  • Difficulty reading printed materials - need strong reading lenses, bifocals, or magnifiers to read normal size print
  • Restrictions may be imposed on driving privileges in many US states and European countries, dependant on the visual acuity scores of each eye
MODERATE LOW VISION

20/80
20/100
20/125
20/160
  • May have difficulty reading large printed materials, even with a magnifier
  • Must rely on prescriptive low vision optical and electronic devices for reading
  • Restrictive licenses and telescopic lenses allowed in many US states for driving. Driving privileges lost in remaining US states
SEVERE LOW VISION

20/200
20/250
20/300
20/400
  • Extreme difficulties recognizing facial features and road signs
  • Must rely on prescriptive low vision optical and electronic devices for reading
  • Reading slower than normal, may listen to the news on the radio instead of reading the newspaper
PROFOUND LOW VISION

20/500
20/600
20/800
20/1000
  • Reading is too laborious to be enjoyable
  • Orientation and mobility problems
  • Must rely on high-powered prescriptive low vision optical or electronic enhancement devices