What condition is indicated by having a visual acuity of 20/200?

A visual acuity of 20/200 indicates that a person can see at 20 feet what a person with normal vision can see at 200 feet. This level of visual acuity is a key diagnostic criterion for legal blindness in the United States. Being classified as legally blind does not necessarily mean that a person has no vision; it simply refers to a significant limitation in visual capability that greatly impacts daily life and functioning.

This designation is important in various contexts, such as qualifying for certain benefits, low-vision rehabilitation services, and adaptations in educational and workplace settings. Individuals who are legally blind may still have some functional vision, but their ability to see is severely restricted, warranting specific accommodations and considerations for their unique needs.

In contrast, conditions such as low vision, blindness, and functional blindness have distinct definitions and may not apply to a person with a visual acuity of 20/200, positioning the correct answer as legally blind.