August 13, 2024

Can Vision Therapy Benefit A Child With a Learning Disability?

For decades, vision therapy has been [recognized] as an effective treatment for children with visual problems like strabismus (crossed eyes), amblyopia (lazy eye), and visual processing disorders. Studies show that many children with learning disabilities…
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Opto-Mization Optometry & Vision Therapy

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For decades, vision therapy has been [recognized] as an effective treatment for children with visual problems like strabismus (crossed eyes), amblyopia (lazy eye), and visual processing disorders.

Studies show that many children with learning disabilities also have visual issues that can make it even more difficult to learn. And sometimes, visual problems are misdiagnosed as ADHD or a learning disability because they share some of the same symptoms.

To determine whether your child has a visual problem in addition to a learning disability ? or whether that visual problem is mimicking a learning disability ? schedule a functional vision test with Opto-mization NeuroVisual Performance in Victoria. If the problem is visual, vision therapy will get to the root of the issue and help your child excel in school.

What Is A Learning Disability?

Learning disabilities are neurological disorders that affect a child?s ability to process and understand information.

When a child is diagnosed with a learning disability, they may find it difficult to write, read, pay attention, remember things, stay [organized], and do maths.

Problems with the visual system share many of these symptoms. When a child?s eyes can?t function as a team, for example, it makes it extremely hard to read, concentrate in school and do homework. Children can become frustrated and act out in school.

Fortunately, vision therapy can address problems with visual skills and visual processing.

What Is Vision Therapy?

Vision therapy is a treatment program that is designed to help improve visual skills like focusing, eye tracking, visual speed processing, eye-hand coordination, and eye teaming. This is done through the use of filters, prisms, lenses, and eye exercises which strengthen the brain?s connection to the eyes.

By taking your child to vision therapy, you?ll be able to treat vision problems that may be mistaken for a learning disability.

What Visual Problems Does Vision Therapy Treat?

One way vision therapy benefits children that have been diagnosed with a learning disability is by addressing visual processing disorders. These types of disorders impact how the brain processes visual information, which results in problems with writing, reading, and retaining information.

Vision therapy is also helpful for improving poor eye tracking and eye teaming skills, which make it difficult to focus for long periods. It will allow a child to track text and moving objects in an easier way.

Children who struggle with coordination and spatial awareness can also benefit from vision therapy, allowing them to participate in activities like art and sports, which are also important for socializing with their peers.

Book A Vision Therapy Consultation in Victoria

Although vision therapy can’t cure learning disabilities, it can improve underlying vision issues that may be contributing to your child?s struggles in school and on the sports field.

If you suspect that your child may be struggling with a learning disability, make sure to also have them assessed for visual problems. Schedule a functional eye exam at Opto-mization NeuroVisual Performance today!

Our practice serves patients from Victoria, Nanaimo, Duncan, and Vancouver Island, British Columbia and surrounding communities.

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Our Victoria Practice
Opto-Mization Optometry & Vision Therapy
200-775 Topaz Ave
Victoria, BC V8T 4Z7
Phone
(250) 590-7384
Fax
250-412-6459
Email
(Do not send personal health information by email.)
  • Monday:
    8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Tuesday:
    8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday:
    8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Thursday:
    8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Friday:
    8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Saturday:
    8:30 AM - 3:30 PM
  • Sunday:
    Closed
Rating
5.0
Out of 265 Reviews
Our Nanaimo Practice
Opto-Mization Optometry & Vision Therapy
205-1825 Bowen Rd
Nanaimo, BC V9S 1H1
Phone
(250) 591-0270
Fax
250-412-6459
Email
(Do not send personal health information by email.)
  • Monday:
    10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Tuesday:
    10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Wednesday:
    10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Thursday:
    11:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Friday:
    9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Saturday:
    Closed
  • Sunday:
    Closed
Rating
4.9
Out of 59 Reviews

You Ask, We'll Answer

Educating you so you can make informed decisions

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  • What is Neuro-Optometry?

    Neuro-Optometry focuses on the intricate connection between your visual system and the brain, extending beyond traditional eye care to assess functional vision. This branch of optometry examines how your eyes track, move, coordinate, and how your brain processes depth, motion, and balance. Disruptions in these functions can lead to a range of issues including headaches, migraines, dizziness, balance challenges, post-concussion symptoms, reading difficulties, and attention deficits (ADHD). By exploring these functional areas, we also identify opportunities to enhance performance in activities such as sports, reading speed, and cognitive processes.

  • What is Vision Therapy?

    At Opto-Mization, vision therapy is a specialized, personalized program aimed at improving visual skills and abilities. It goes beyond traditional vision therapy to help improve how the eyes and brain work together, addressing visual-motor and perceptual-cognitive challenges to enhance overall visual function. It’s more than just exercises; it’s a pathway to better vision and improved daily life.

  • Do you Provide Regular Eye Exams and General Optometric Services?

    Yes, alongside vision therapy and neuro-optometry, we offer comprehensive eye exams and general optometry services. Our experienced optometrists perform thorough eye exams to evaluate overall eye health, identify any eye conditions or diseases, and prescribe corrective lenses when beneficial.

  • Who is the Ideal Candidate for Vision Therapy and Neuro-Optometry?

    Vision therapy and neuro-optometric rehabilitation can help individuals of all ages. Whether you’re struggling with visual processing issues, binocular vision disorders, amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (eye misalignment), or have sustained a brain injury, our services might be beneficial for you. Contact us to discuss if our tailored approach can meet your specific needs and goals.

  • Do I Need a Referral to See an Optometrist at Opto-Mization?

    No, you do not need a referral for an eye exam at Opto-Mization. We welcome anyone who suspects they might benefit from our services, whether you’re experiencing symptoms of visual discomfort or just want to ensure optimal visual performance. Feel free to reach out and schedule your appointment directly with us to take the first step toward understanding and improving your visual function.

  • Do You Direct Bill Insurance?

    Yes, we offer direct billing for a variety of insurance plans to make the process as seamless and hassle-free as possible for our patients. Our knowledgeable staff is well-versed in working with insurance providers, ensuring that you can maximize your benefits while minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for our services, including vision therapy and eye exams.