This digest provides basic information and resources on visual impairments. Legal and educational definitions are given for "legally blind,""partially sighted,""visually handicapped,""blind," and "low vision". Typical characteristics of individuals with visual impairments in the areas of cognitive and social development are noted. Educational implications are identified, including mainstreaming, special services needed, and effects of additional disabilities. Fourteen organizational resources are listed and a bibliography of six items is provided. (DB)