The Vision Gap in Blount County
Every child deserves a clear view of the classroom. Every adult deserves to see their world with confidence. Yet in Blount County, thousands face barriers to basic vision care—and the challenge is growing.
A Growing Community, Growing Needs
Blount County is one of the fastest-growing counties in East Tennessee. With new residents moving in and families expanding, the demand for local services—including vision care—is rising rapidly.
Key Stats:
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Population increased by over 10% in the last decade
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Projected to surpass 150,000 residents within the next few years
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Growth concentrated in school-age families and retirees
This growth is good for our community—but it also puts added pressure on already stretched resources. More seniors, more students, and more working families mean more people who need help seeing clearly.
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A County That’s Growing Older
An aging population means growing vision needs.
Over 21% of Blount County’s population is age 65 or older, and that number is climbing. Seniors face a high risk of vision loss due to age-related conditions i.e.; glaucoma, cataracts, corneal replacements, macular degeneration, retinal issues etc. —yet many struggle to access affordable eye care.
Vision and the Classroom
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When kids can't see, they can't learn
With over 10,000 students enrolled in Blount County public schools, undiagnosed vision issues are one of the most common—and preventable—barriers to learning. And many families can’t afford eye exams or corrective lenses.
Avaliability Does Not Equal Access
While Blount County is home to outstanding optometry and ophthalmology professionals, poverty causes thousands to still fall through the cracks.
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Children in Poverty: Approximately 12% of children age 0–17 live in poverty in Blount County World Population Review+8; Data USA+8unitedwayblount.org
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Seniors Poverty: Around 9–10% of residents age 65+ fall below the poverty threshold en.wikipedia.orgCensus Reporter