Low vision is not blindness, but rather a partial loss of quality of vision. Useful vision is still retained and can be enhanced with optical aids. Low vision affects mostly older adults but can also be seen in other age groups. Many of the conditions that cause low vision are age related. Low vision is one of the leading handicaps among those over the age of 65.
Low vision results from a variety of conditions and disorders that affect the eye.
The most common cause of low vision is the scarring or deterioration of the retina. Cataract - A clouding of the clear lens of the eye resulting in blurred or hazy vision. Macular Degeneration - Damage or breakdown of the macula resulting in loss or deterioration of central vision. Diabetic Retinopathy - Complication of diabetes where blood vessels on the retina are damaged creating scar tissue and resulting in loss of vision. There are other conditions that may lead to low vision.