The goal of the Mayo Clinic Low Vision Service is to help you make the most of the vision you have. Low vision is a visual impairment of any degree that interferes with your ability to function. About 12 million Americans have some type of vision problem that cannot be corrected with glasses. Low vision affects every person differently. For one person, low vision makes reading difficult, for another driving is impossible and for another working in the kitchen is a problem.
Low vision affects people of all ages, but is primarily associated with older people.
The most common cause of low vision is macular degeneration, an age-related disease that affects the central portion of your visual field. Other common causes include glaucoma, cataracts and diabetes. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.