We often refer to "20/20" vision but what does it actually mean? 20/20 is a term used to express normal visual acuity measured at a distance of 20 feet or 6 metres (6/6 vision). If you have 20/20 vision, you can see clearly at 20 feet what a person with normal vision can see from 20 feet.

If you have 20/20 vision, you can see clearly at 20 feet what a person with normal vision can see from 20 feet.


However, if you have 20/60 vision, it means that a person must be as close as 20 feet to see what a person with normal vision can see from 60 feet.

A person is considered blind if their vision is 20/200 meaning that they can see something 20 feet away that a person with normal vision can see from 200 feet away.

It can also work in reverse, if a person has 20/10 vision it means that they can see something from 20 feet away that a normal person can see from only 10 feet away. They have bionic eyes!

Does 20/20 vision mean you have perfect vision?

20/20 vision only refers to the sharpness or clarity of vision at a distance. There are other critical vision skills, including peripheral vision, eye coordination, depth perception, ability  to focus and ability to see colour, that contribute to your overall vision.

It’s important to get your eyes examined by an eye care professional on a regular basis to check all aspects of your vision health.

What is 20/20 Vision Infographic

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