What Is Legally Blind? Empowering Vision in Australia

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

As someone who lives with bipolar disorder, I know how challenging it can be to navigate life with a disability. And I’ve had cataract surgery in both eyes. So I’ve seen firsthand how we can turn our struggles into strengths. Today, let’s talk about legal blindness in Australia and how those with vision impairments can empower themselves through the NDIS.

Key Takeaways

• Legal blindness in Australia is defined by specific visual acuity and field criteria
• The NDIS provides support for Australians with vision impairments
• Vision loss can be a source of empowerment across all areas of life
• Early detection and regular eye check-ups are crucial for managing vision health
• There are many resources and support services available for those with vision impairments

What Does “Legally Blind” Really Mean?

You’ve probably heard the term “legally blind” before. But what does it actually mean? In Australia, it’s not just about not being able to see. It’s a specific definition used to determine who’s eligible for certain support services.

Here’s the deal: You’re considered legally blind in Australia if your vision in your better eye is less than 6/60 with correction. That means even with glasses or contacts, you can’t see at 6 metres what someone with normal vision can see at 60 metres. 

But there’s more to it. You can also be legally blind if your visual field is less than 10 degrees. Think of it like looking through a straw. If that’s all you can see, you’re likely legally blind.

It’s important to note that legal blindness doesn’t always mean total darkness. Many legally blind people have some usable vision. It’s a spectrum, not an on-off switch.

Understanding Vision Impairment

Vision impairment is a broader term that includes legal blindness but also covers less severe forms of vision loss. It refers to any significant reduction in vision that can’t be fully corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery.

There are different categories of vision impairment:

1. Low Vision: This is reduced vision that impacts daily activities but isn’t classified as blindness. People with low vision might struggle with reading, recognizing faces, or navigating unfamiliar environments.
2. Legal Blindness: As we’ve discussed, this is defined by specific visual acuity and field criteria.
3. Total Blindness: This refers to the complete absence of light perception.

Vision impairments are just one kind of sensory disability.

Common Causes of Vision Impairment

Several conditions can lead to vision impairment or legal blindness:

1. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

This condition affects the central part of your vision and is more common in older adults.

2. Glaucoma

This group of eye conditions damages the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure in the eye.

3. Diabetic Retinopathy

A complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina.

4. Cataracts

These cause the lens of your eye to become cloudy, leading to blurred vision.

5. Genetic Conditions

Some inherited conditions, like retinitis pigmentosa, can cause progressive vision loss.

Early Detection and Prevention

Regular eye check-ups are crucial for maintaining eye health and catching potential issues early. Here are some tips for protecting your vision:

1. Get regular eye exams: Even if you think your vision is fine, routine check-ups can catch problems early.
2. Protect your eyes from the sun: Wear sunglasses and hats when outdoors.
3. Eat a healthy diet: Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can support eye health.
4. Don’t smoke: Smoking increases your risk of several eye conditions.
5. Manage chronic conditions: If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, keep them under control to protect your vision.

Vision Loss and the NDIS: A Path to Empowerment

Now, let’s talk about how the NDIS can help those with vision impairments. The National Disability Insurance Scheme is a life-changer for many Australians with disabilities, including those with vision loss.

If you’re legally blind or have a significant vision impairment, you might be eligible for NDIS support. This can include funding for:

• Assistive technology like screen readers or magnifiers
• Mobility training
• Support workers to help with daily tasks
• Home modifications to make your environment safer

But here’s the cool part: The NDIS isn’t just about managing your disability. It’s about empowering you to live your best life. Let’s look at how vision impairment can actually become a source of strength across different areas of life.

Turning Vision Loss into Vision Gain

1. Wisdom and Creativity

Losing your sight doesn’t mean losing your insight. Many people with vision impairments develop incredible problem-solving skills. They find creative ways to navigate the world. This adaptability can lead to unique perspectives and innovative thinking.

For example, some legally blind individuals become excellent at using other senses to gather information. They might develop a keen sense of hearing or touch, which can be valuable in many fields, from music to technology development.

2. Business and Achievement

Think vision loss means you can’t succeed in business? Think again! Many successful entrepreneurs are legally blind. They often develop strong communication skills and an ability to innovate. These are valuable assets in any industry.

Take the story of Dr. Amy Bower, a legally blind oceanographer who has made significant contributions to her field. Her vision impairment led her to develop innovative ways of analysing data, proving that different perspectives can lead to groundbreaking achievements.

3. Wellness and Vitality

Staying fit with vision loss can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Many people with vision impairments become passionate about fitness. They develop a keen body awareness that can lead to excellent physical health.

Blind yoga and tandem cycling are just a couple of examples of how people with vision impairments adapt physical activities. These practices not only maintain physical health but also build confidence and social connections.

4. Love and Family

Vision loss can deepen relationships. It often leads to more meaningful communication and a stronger appreciation for emotional connections. Many people find their family bonds grow stronger as they navigate vision loss together.

Families often develop unique ways of supporting each other, from describing visual scenes in detail to finding non-visual ways to share experiences. This can lead to richer, more empathetic relationships.

5. Social Influence and Leadership

Living with vision loss can make you a natural advocate. Many people with vision impairments become powerful voices in their communities. They lead the way in creating more inclusive societies.

For instance, many legally blind individuals become involved in accessibility advocacy, pushing for more inclusive design in public spaces, technology, and workplaces. This leadership not only benefits the vision impaired community but society as a whole.

6. Financial Independence

With the right support and skills, vision loss doesn’t have to limit your financial potential. Many people with vision impairments build successful careers and achieve financial independence.

The NDIS can play a crucial role here, providing support for job training, workplace modifications, and assistive technology that can open up a world of career possibilities.

7. Inspired Mission and Awareness

Living with vision loss often leads to a heightened awareness of the world around you. Many people develop a strong sense of purpose and a desire to make a positive impact on the world.

This might manifest as volunteering, mentoring others with vision impairments, or working to raise awareness about accessibility issues. This sense of purpose can bring deep fulfilment and meaning to life.

Resources and Support

Vision Australia is a fantastic resource for those with vision impairments. They offer a range of services, from low vision clinics to employment support. Check out their website for more information.

Other valuable resources include:

1. Blind Citizens Australia: An advocacy organisation run by and for people who are blind or vision impaired.
2. Guide Dogs Australia: Provides a range of services, including mobility training and, of course, guide dogs.
3. Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children: Offers support and education services for children with vision or hearing impairments.

Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. There are many support groups and organisations ready to help you navigate life with vision loss.

Conclusion

Legal blindness in Australia is a specific definition, but living with vision loss is a unique experience for everyone. With the right support, including services provided through the NDIS, vision impairment doesn’t have to hold you back. In fact, it can be a catalyst for personal growth and empowerment.

Whether you’re dealing with vision loss yourself or supporting someone who is, remember that there’s a wealth of resources and support available. From assistive technologies to community support groups, there are many tools to help you navigate this journey.

Most importantly, remember that vision impairment, while challenging, can also be a source of strength. It can lead to the development of unique skills, deeper relationships, and a profound appreciation for life’s diverse experiences.

Action Steps

1. If you think you might be legally blind, talk to your doctor or an eye specialist.
2. Check your eligibility for the NDIS if you haven’t already or if you’re already an NDIS participant, ask The SALT Foundation about how we can meet your support needs.
3. Reach out to Vision Australia or local support groups for resources and community.
4. Consider how your vision impairment might be a strength in different areas of your life.
5. Explore assistive technologies that could enhance your daily life and independence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Remember, vision loss is a journey, not a destination. With the right support and mindset, you can turn this challenge into an opportunity for growth and empowerment. You’ve got this!

Daniel G. Taylor

Daniel G. Taylor has been writing about the NDIS for three years. His focus has been on mental health and psychosocial disabilities as he lives with bipolar disorder I. He’s been a freelance writer for 30 years and lives across the road from the beach in Adelaide. He’s the author of How to Master Bipolar Disorder for Life and a contributor to Mastering Bipolar Disorder (Allen & Unwin) and he’s a mental health speaker.