Basic concepts and terms for low vision rehabilitation

As the involvement of occupational therapists in the rehabilitation of people with visual impairments increases, it is important for all professionals involved to communicate clearly by using the most accurate terminology. This article suggests the most appropriate use of terms and concepts. It recommends that the distinctions between the various aspects of vision loss be recognized and that the old dichotomy of legally blind versus legally sighted be replaced by the more detailed classification of the International Classification of Diseases, 9th revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM), which recognizes multiple levels of visual performance.