Midwest Low Vision

11/25/2025

Low vision vs. legally blind—what's the difference?

The terms "low vision" and "legally blind" are often used interchangeably, but they actually describe different levels of visual impairment.

Low vision refers to vision loss that can’t be fully corrected with glasses, contacts, or surgery. People with low vision may still have some usable sight, but they often need specialized tools like magnifiers, telescopic lenses, or assistive technology to make the most of it.

Legally blind is a specific definition used for legal and benefits purposes, not a diagnosis. In the U.S., a person is considered legally blind if their best corrected visual acuity is 20/200 or worse in their better-seeing eye, or if their peripheral vision is 20 degrees or less.

It is not either/or. You can have low vision and be legally blind. On the other hand, you can have low vision but not necessarily meet the legal requirements to be classified legally blind.

11/19/2025

True or false: People with 20/200 vision can obtain a drivers license?

True!

Through the use of bioptic telescopic glasses and training with a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS), qualified individuals may become licensed bioptic drivers.

Learn more in our recent blog post, "Ready to Drive Again? How Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation and Your Low Vision Doctor Can Help," which discusses how Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation program, the BMV, and low vision care come together to help you get behind the wheel.

https://midwestlowvision.com/ready-to-drive-again-how-indiana-vocational-rehabilitation-and-your-low-vision-doctor-can-help/

11/13/2025

It seems like AI is everywhere nowadays—and optometry is no exception.

A team of researchers in China has developed VIPTour, an AI-driven system designed to help people with vision loss independently explore and enjoy nature.

Spending time outdoors is tremendous for our health, but people with low vision or blindness often miss out because there aren't assistive tools to facilitate active engagement with the environment. Instead of just avoiding obstacles, VIPTour highlights the most interesting and useful parts of the environment, making the experience safer and more enjoyable. Early testing showed big boosts in memory, confidence, and positive emotions for users. Innovation for good.

Learn more: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20250608/AI-transforms-sightseeing-for-visually-impaired-users.aspx

11/05/2025

Did you know that some individuals with low vision may qualify to drive legally in the state of Indiana? Through the use of specialized bioptic telescopic lenses and the assistance of Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation, qualified individuals can regain independence behind the wheel.

Learn more about how this process works in our most recent blog post.

https://midwestlowvision.com/ready-to-drive-again-how-indiana-vocational-rehabilitation-and-your-low-vision-doctor-can-help/

10/28/2025

Interested in learning more about low vision? Whether you are a patient, a caregiver, or a clinician, our monthly newsletter brings patient stories, practical advice, and our expertise in this field. Subscribe today to receive our updates straight to your inbox!

https://mailchi.mp/8ef23b8092b6/low-vision-newsletter-signup-page

10/20/2025

In 2020, an 18-year-old student with ocular albinism came to us hoping to find a way to drive. His vision with glasses measured around 20/80. For close-up vision, he read with some difficulty and often required the zoom function on his phone.

These measurements did not meet Indiana’s driving standards; however, with the use of bioptic glasses, and training through Indiana's Vocational Rehabilitation program, our patient reached his goal of getting behind the wheel. Learn more about his story here: https://midwestlowvision.com/more-than-meets-the-eye-living-with-ocular-albinism/

10/19/2025

This birthday girl handles all low vision calls and correspondence. If you call this week, give her a belated birthday wish! Thanks for all you do, Annette!

10/17/2025

Some of the realities of learning to drive with bioptic telescopic glasses are explained by Holly, our lead low vision technician (who also happens to be a seasoned bioptic driver).

10/14/2025

Pretty cool!

INDIANAPOLIS — Visually-impaired fans of the Indiana Pacers will soon be able to experience live basketball like never before with a service that will bring the game to life. Starting this season, …

10/09/2025

When many hear the word “albinism,” they think of very light skin, hair, and eyes. But with ocular albinism, only the eyes are affected—making everyday tasks like reading, sports, driving, or even social interactions more difficult.

Fortunately, with the right care, patients can thrive. Check out our most recent blog post to learn how one patient overcame his vision challenges—and stepped into the driver's seat.

https://midwestlowvision.com/more-than-meets-the-eye-living-with-ocular-albinism/