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Whether it’s your first vision test or you’ve been wearing eyeglasses for years, measuring your visual acuity is important for keeping your eyesight healthy. But what is visual acuity, and what does it have to do with wearing eyeglasses or contacts? While your eye doctor will explain the importance of vision tests during your appointment, understanding the process can help you better prepare for your visit.

What Is Visual Acuity?

Visual acuity describes the clarity and sharpness of your vision, tested by how clearly you can discern letters or numbers at a fixed distance. The ability to see details like letters and numbers is dependent on the retinal focus in the eye, which works in tandem with the interpretative center of the brain to identify the object. Perfect visual acuity is also known as 20/20 vision.

How Is Visual Acuity Tested?

eyeglassesThe Snellen chart is the most common tool used when testing a person’s visual acuity. This chart is probably what you’re most familiar with when having your vision tested. You typically stand 20 feet away and read a line of text, numbers, or symbols. As the chart progresses, the items you have to identify become smaller, testing your ability to clearly observe and define the objects. When evaluating the results, the top number of 20/20 vision stands for how far away you were from the chart, while the bottom number denotes your ability to see a letter clearly compared to a person with normal visual acuity. Therefore, a reading of 20/10 would mean at 20 feet you can see what someone with normal vision reads clearly at 10 feet.

Why Is This Test Important?

The visual acuity test is important for a number of reasons, but it’s crucial in detecting possible eye problems. When individuals have a difficult time passing the visual acuity test, it may mean they need eyeglasses or contacts to improve their vision. Additionally, this test can help the eye doctor determine what prescription of eyeglasses would be ideal for the patient. If you’re concerned you may be experiencing vision problems, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor to have a comprehensive eye exam.

 

For more than 100 years, Wing Eyecare has provided vital eye health care services to individuals in Cincinnati, Ohio, and the surrounding communities. From measuring visual acuity to fitting eyeglasses, the doctors at Wing Eyecare have the skillset and knowledge to evaluate and treat a variety of vision issues. To learn more about this vision center, visit their website or call (888) 274-9464.

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