Yes, there are many different types of blindness. Specifically, for me, there’s complete blindness where I only see black. Some people can see nothing but can perceive changes in light. Others have peripheral vision, and some have central vision. There’s everything in between.
Personally, I have Stargard’s macular degeneration. Year by year, my central vision is deteriorating. That’s one aspect of it. The other aspect is that I have regular astigmatism, just like anyone else, so I wear contacts. Now, you might think that means I can see pretty well, but no, my vision is only corrected to 20/300 in the places I can still see. However, my central vision is completely gone.
For example, as I look at the computer screen right now, I can see almost nothing in the center. It’s mostly blank, with just some vague light perception. Around the edges, it’s a bit lighter, and I rely on my peripheral vision the most. That doesn’t mean my vision is great. I’ve never been able to drive. When you talk to me in the workplace or on the street, you’ll notice I often look to the left of you. For instance, if I were trying to see something on the screen, I would naturally look to the left because that’s where I can gather the most information. I’ve trained myself to look at the screen primarily to make others more comfortable, but it doesn’t provide me with feedback on what I can and can’t see.
It’s important to understand that every vision disability, every level of blindness, is different. Legally blind or blind simply means that your sight is 20/200 or worse. So, never assume that someone is completely blind or can see like me because all blind individuals are likely different. Thank you so much for the question.
