Vision Reference Guide

Visual Norms and Expected Values

Vision Overview

Visual acuity and binocular vision are critical components of overall eye health, contributing to how we perceive and interact with the world. Good vision goes beyond clarity of sight; it includes the ability to focus, coordinate, and perceive depth accurately.

Binocular vision, the ability of both eyes to work together, is essential for depth perception and a single, cohesive field of view. This involves proper alignment of the eyes, as well as smooth and coordinated eye movements. Discrepancies from these norms, such as strabismus (misalignment of the eyes), amblyopia ("lazy eye"), or convergence/divergence insufficiency/excess, can lead to difficulties in reading, depth perception, and overall visual comfort.

This section provides a comprehensive guide to the essential normative values that underpin effective vision testing. By exploring pivotal diagnostic tests and expected benchmarks, optometrists can accurately recognize and diagnose visual anomalies.