Facts About Sight Loss: Symptoms & Leading Eye Diseases

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There are many causes of visual impairment and many ways Braille Institute helps people of all ages overcome obstacles caused by low vision. We offer the latest information, adaptive classes and assistive devices. Read below to find out about some of the common symptoms of vision loss and the leading eye diseases.

What is Legally Blind?

Twenty-one percent of people age 65 and over report some form of vision impairment. This represents 7.3 million people. To see how different eye diseases affect what you can see, visit our Leading Eye Diseases page.

As a general rule of thumb, those who, even with corrective lenses, cannot read the biggest letter on an eye chart are considered to be legally blind. Braille Institute offers free low vision consultations for people experiencing sight loss.

Common Symptoms

There are a number of symptoms that may indicate the onset of an eye disease. A comprehensive eye exam should be scheduled your optometrist if any of these signs of potential eye problems develops. Early detection and treatment can be the key to preventing needless loss of sight. Free low vision consultations are available at Braille Institute for those who qualify.

Typical symptoms may include:

  • Trouble adjusting eyesight to dark rooms or outside at night
  • Difficulty focusing on near or distant objects
  • Squinting or blinking due to unusual sensitivity to light or glare

The following symptoms may be indications of more serious problems, and an ophthalmologist should be consulted as soon as possible:

  • Sudden loss of vision in one eye
  • Sudden hazy or blurred vision
  • Flashes of light or showers of black spots

While sight loss can affect millions of Americans every year, there are still common misconceptions. Click here to read them.

If you have been diagnosed with an eye disease or if your vision isn't as good as it used to be, Braille Institute can help bring your life back into focus. Learn more about our free programs and services or visit our Vistas store.