42-30. Blind persons—Blindness defined.—A person shall be considered “blind” for the purpose of this act whose vision, with correcting glasses is so defective as to prevent the performance of activities for which eyesight is essential. The department shall promulgate rules and regulations stating in terms of ophthalmic measurements the maximum amount of visual acuity and the degree of field defect of the eye which an applicant or recipient may have and still be eligible for assistance, provided that the maximum amount of visual acuity shall not be less than 3-60ths or 20-200ths central visual acuity in the better eye with corrective glasses and provided that where there is a field defect in which the peripheral field has contracted, the maximum for the widest diameter of visual field does not subtend an angular distance greater than 20 degrees.

424. Aid to the Permanently and Totally Disabled (APTD)

Acceptance of treatment shall not be considered an eligibility factor for APTD.

A determination of total and permanent disability shall be made for each APTD applicant.

Permanent disability means that the individual has a physical or mental impairment, disease or loss that will probably continue throughout his life; however, the disability shall not rule out the possibility of medical or vocational rehabilitation.

Total disability means that the individual has a physical or mental impairment, disease or loss that prevents him from performing activities necessary to meet his responsibilities and needs. In determining whether a given individual is totally disabled, his needs and responsibilities shall be compared to those of other individuals of similar age, background and life-style.