Visual acuity of 20/200 signifies that an individual can clearly see at 20 feet what a person with normal vision can see at 200 feet. This level of visual impairment represents significant difficulty seeing details at a distance. For instance, a street sign legible to most people at 200 feet would only be clear to someone with 20/200 vision from 20 feet away.
This level of acuity is considered legally blind in the United States, meaning it significantly impacts daily activities like driving, reading, and recognizing faces. Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing vision loss and maximizing remaining sight. Historically, standardized charts like the Snellen chart have played a vital role in assessing visual acuity, allowing for consistent measurement and diagnosis of vision problems. This has enabled advancements in eye care and accessibility for individuals with impaired vision.