Sjónskerðing

Sjónskerðing, often translated as visual impairment or vision loss, refers to a reduced ability to see to a degree that causes problems not fixable by usual means, such as glasses or contact lenses. It is distinct from blindness, which is a complete or near-complete loss of vision. Visual impairment can range from mild to severe, affecting a person's ability to perform everyday tasks.

The causes of sjónskerðing are diverse and can include age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and uncorrected refractive errors. In some cases, it can be congenital, meaning present at birth, or caused by injury or illness later in life. The impact of visual impairment varies greatly depending on the severity and the specific areas of vision affected, such as central vision, peripheral vision, or color vision.

Diagnosing sjónskerðing typically involves a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Treatment and management strategies depend on the underlying cause and can include medical or surgical interventions, as well as the use of assistive devices and visual rehabilitation services. These services aim to help individuals with visual impairment maximize their remaining vision and adapt to their condition, enabling them to live more independently.