Functional vision refers to the ability to effectively use one's vision to perform tasks and activities of daily living. It encompasses various visual skills and abilities, including eye teaming, eye tracking, eye focusing, visual processing, eye-hand coordination, and depth perception.
Examples of tasks that rely on functional vision include reading, writing, driving, recognizing faces, judging distances, participating in sports, and navigating unfamiliar environments. Individuals with optimal functional vision can perform these tasks efficiently and accurately.
Beyond 20/20
Functional vision is not solely determined by visual acuity (clarity of vision). It relies on how well an individual’s visual system functions as a whole. For example, individuals with 20/20 vision may experience difficulties in tasks like reading or navigating their environment from deficits in visual function. A vision screening does NOT catch these types of issues.
Sight vs. Vision
Eyesight is how clearly we see. It allows us to read the 20/20 line. Vision is how we interpret and make sense of visual information to create meaningful life experiences. Good eyesight does not equal good vision. Every individual deserves to have access to their full visual potential.
Get scheduled to assess your functional vision
Addressing functional vision difficulties involves scheduling a comprehensive evaluation by a developmental optometrist followed by interventions such as corrective lenses or vision therapy to enhance quality of life.