As an expert in the field of vision health, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what constitutes legally blind nearsightedness. Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a common vision condition where close objects appear clearly, but distant objects are blurry. This occurs when the eye's shape causes light rays to bend (refract) incorrectly, focusing images in front of the retina rather than directly on it.

### Definition of Legal Blindness

Legal blindness is a term used to describe significant visual impairment that affects an individual's ability to perform daily tasks and engage in certain professions. It is important to note that legal blindness is a legal definition and not a medical one. The criteria for legal blindness can vary by country, but in many places, including the United States, it is defined as having a visual acuity of 20/200 or worse in the better-seeing eye with the best possible correction, such as glasses or contact lenses.

### Nearsightedness and Legal Blindness

Nearsighted individuals can have varying degrees of myopia. In general, if your vision can be corrected to better than 20/200 with glasses or contacts, you are not considered legally blind, regardless of the severity of your nearsightedness. However, if your vision cannot be corrected to this level, you may be classified as legally blind.

### Factors Affecting Nearsightedness

Several factors can influence the degree of nearsightedness, including:


1. Genetics: A family history of myopia can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.

2. Age: Myopia often worsens during childhood and adolescence and can stabilize in adulthood.

3. Eyestrain: Prolonged near work, such as reading or using a computer, can contribute to the development of myopia.

4. Refractive Errors: Abnormalities in the shape of the eye or its components can lead to myopia.

### Treatments for Nearsightedness

There are various treatments available for nearsightedness:


1. Glasses or Contact Lenses: These can correct vision to normal levels for most nearsighted individuals.

2. Laser Surgery: Procedures like LASIK can reshape the cornea to correct myopia.

3. Orthokeratology: Involves the use of specially designed contact lenses to temporarily change the shape of the cornea.

4. Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): For cataract patients, IOLs can correct myopia during cataract surgery.

### Implications of Legal Blindness

Being classified as legally blind can have significant implications, including:


1. Social Services: Eligibility for certain social services and benefits.

2. Education: Access to specialized educational resources and accommodations.

3. Employment: Certain restrictions or accommodations in the workplace.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, legally blind nearsightedness is defined by a specific threshold of visual acuity that cannot be improved to better than 20/200 with correction. It is a legal and not a medical classification, and it has various implications for an individual's life. Understanding the factors that contribute to nearsightedness and the available treatments is crucial for managing the condition and ensuring that individuals maintain the best possible vision for their circumstances.

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Legally Blind Due To Reduced Visual Acuity. ... As long as your vision can be corrected to better than 20/200 with glasses or contacts, you are not considered legally blind, no matter how much nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism you have.read more >>