6065- Vision in one eye 5/200 (1.5/60)

DBQ: Link to Index of DBQ/Exams by Disability for DC 6065

Definition

Bilateral blindness exists when the vision in both eyes is no better than 20/200.

Etiology

 Loss of vision and blindness may also occur from severe eye infections (staphylococcal endophthalmitis); systemic disease; untreated eye conditions; or complications of eye surgery.

Signs & Symptoms

Any ophthalmic disorder may result in gradual loss of vision or blindness. In cases where vision is limited to light perception only, there is an inability to see hand movements at one meter (3 feet).

Tests

Tests for sight include: visual acuity; visual fields; ophthalmoscopy; slit lamp; and external examination.

Treatment

Recognition and treatment of the early stages of diseases that cause blindness may slow their progress to legal blindness. Low-vision aids such as telescopes, hand magnifiers, and electronic reading devices may be of assistance.

Residuals

The goal of rehabilitation is to continue to lead as normal a life as possible.

Early referral to rehabilitation agencies for training and re-education is essential, e.g., learning to walk sightless, using a cane; using guide dogs; using auditory reading aids; and learning Braille before complete blindness has occurred. Counseling for body image disturbance related to loss of vision may be helpful.

Special Considerations

  • Consider entitlement to ancillary benefits if Veteran meets eligibility criteria (38 CFR 3.155(d)(2)).

  • May be entitled to special monthly compensation where the Veteran has a single service-connected disability rated as 100% with additional service-connected disability or disabilities independently ratable at 60% or more, which are separate and distinct from the 100% service-connected disability and involves different anatomical segments or bodily systems. See  38 CFR 3.350(i)(1) – Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).

  • Consider entitlement to specially adapted housing under 38 U.S.C. 2101(a)(2)(A)(i) if there is visual impairment to the degree specified in 38 CFR 3.809(b)(2).

  • The veteran, spouse, surviving spouse or parent will be considered in need of regular aid and attendance if he or she is blind or so nearly blind as to have corrected visual acuity of 5/200 or less, in both eyes, or concentric contraction of the visual field to 5 degrees or less (38 CFR 3.351(c)(1)).

  • Consider entitlement to automobile allowance and/or automobile adaptive equipment if there is visual impairment to the degree specified in 38 CFR 3.808(b)(3).

Notes