A visually handicapped person refers to an individual who experiences a significant degree of impairment or limitation in their visual perception, making it difficult for them to perform day-to-day tasks that typically rely on sight. This term encompasses individuals with varying degrees of visual impairments, from mild to severe, which may affect one or both eyes. Visual impairments can result from a wide range of causes, including congenital conditions, hereditary factors, age-related degeneration, injury, or disease.
Visually handicapped individuals may encounter challenges in various aspects of their lives. They may have difficulties in reading, writing, recognizing faces, or distinguishing colors and shapes. Navigating environments, both familiar and unfamiliar, can be demanding, and they may require assistance or specialized aids to move around safely. Accessing print materials, such as books, newspapers, or documents, may require alternative formats, like Braille or audio versions.
To enhance their independence and quality of life, visually handicapped persons may utilize assistive technologies, including screen readers, magnifying devices, talking watches, and canes, among others. They may also benefit from rehabilitation services, orientation and mobility training, and counseling to adapt to their visual condition.
It is important to note that the term "visually handicapped person" is often used interchangeably with terms like visually impaired or visually disabled person, reflecting the notion that visual limitations can impose barriers that hinder one's ability to fully function in a predominantly sight-oriented world.
