I have diabetic retinopathy and pigment dispersion syndrome, which creates high pressure in my eyes (glaucoma). I had cataracts also, but had cataract surgery. I also have no central vision. As far as I can tell, my vision is not like any of your simulation glasses. I cannot read normal text, but can if it’s in the area of 100 pt font and close. Everything is blurred, but I can still distinguish a pitcher from a pot in the kitchen. I can see a car or truck parked on the road, but couldn’t tell you if someone was in the vehicle. I can see a person, but not see any of their features (such as eyes, nose, mouth, etc.). I have blind friends who can read normal print, others who only can see light, and others who are total and see nothing. It is indeed a spectrum.
I see no detail, it’s all blurry but not quite as much as the cataract example. Using eye drops helps for a short time. I have severe neuropathic keratoconus with resulting damage to the cornea.
Thank you, very helpful. It appears that glaucoma is similar to RP, do they have sample glasses for that one. It is difficult to explain to people the tunnel vision impact and how the brain tries to fill in the blanks!
I'm curious about this because of an observation I made the other day: my mother and I were leaving a restaurant and needed to pass through an area that was blocked by a group of friends waiting to be seated. On the outside of the group was a girl with one of those red and white walking sticks. As we approached, without a word or signal from anyone, the girl stepped to one side to let us pass, as if she had seen us coming in her peripheral vision. I was very surprised, as I assumed a person requiring a stick to walk safely must be able to see almost nothing. She was also fit and in her 20s which would seem to preclude her from a few of these conditions.
One can be vision impaired. Depth perception, distortion, glare blurry or cloudy vision. Maybe a small area of sight. Lazy and crossed eyed? So many more reasons. She also might have heard you coming toward her. Its a huge spectrum. I had a cornea transplant and cataract surgery that went bad. I use a cane more to identify that I am vision impaired.
