Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness in adults. For many workers, its gradual impact on vision makes everyday tasks increasingly difficult—especially when clarity, depth perception, or peripheral awareness are essential for employment. If glaucoma has progressed to the point that you can no longer work, PLBH can help you document your medical condition and file for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
Understanding Glaucoma and Its Impact on Employment
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, usually due to increased pressure within the eye. Over time, this damage reduces visual fields and acuity, affecting tasks that require focus, precision, or mobility.
Occupations most affected include:
- Drivers and transportation workers
- Machine operators and mechanics
- Administrative staff relying on screen work
- Healthcare, manufacturing, or maintenance professionals requiring depth perception
If your vision loss interferes with your ability to perform these tasks safely or effectively, you may qualify for SSDI.
How the SSA Evaluates Glaucoma for Disability
The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates vision-related claims under Listing 2.02 (Loss of Visual Acuity), 2.03 (Contraction of the Visual Field), and 2.04 (Loss of Visual Efficiency).
You may meet the listing if:
- Your best-corrected vision in your better eye is 20/200 or worse, or
- You have a visual field limitation in your better eye with a diameter of 20 degrees or less, or
- You experience significant loss of visual efficiency or binocular vision.
Even if you don’t meet these specific listings, you may still qualify if your combined visual limitations prevent you from performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
Medical Evidence Needed for Your SSDI Claim
Objective medical documentation is the backbone of any successful SSDI case.
Essential records include:
- Visual field tests (such as Humphrey or Goldmann perimetry)
- Visual acuity test results with and without corrective lenses
- Intraocular pressure (IOP) readings
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans showing nerve damage
- Reports from your ophthalmologist or optometrist detailing progression
- Treatment history, including surgeries, medications, or laser procedures
PLBH can help you organize these records to clearly demonstrate how your glaucoma impacts your functional abilities.
Proving That Glaucoma Prevents You from Working
The SSA will evaluate your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)—an assessment of how much you can still do despite your vision loss.
Your RFC may show limitations such as:
- Inability to safely drive or operate machinery
- Difficulty reading, using a computer, or handling paperwork
- Trouble navigating unfamiliar spaces or avoiding hazards
- Increased risk of falls or injury in the workplace
Supporting statements from your doctor, coworkers, or family members can further illustrate the real-world impact of your vision loss.
Steps to File or Appeal a Claim
- Collect all medical records from your eye specialists and primary care providers.
- Complete the SSDI application with detailed information about your work history and daily limitations.
- Submit supporting evidence including test results, treatment history, and statements.
- Consult PLBH to ensure your claim meets SSA standards and is properly filed.
If your initial application is denied—as many are—PLBH can assist with your appeal, presenting new evidence and advocating for your eligibility before an Administrative Law Judge.
Restoring Financial Stability After Vision Loss
Losing your sight doesn’t mean losing your independence. SSDI benefits can help you maintain financial security while focusing on treatment and adaptation. If you’re experiencing progressive vision loss from glaucoma that prevents you from working, contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542. Our team will help you document your claim, navigate the appeals process, and secure the disability benefits you’re entitled to.