Childrens Eye Care
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Learning difficulties and dyslexia are becoming better understood. The optometrist has an increasing role to play in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions, which have only recently started to be picked up before they cause major difficulties at school and upset for both children and their parents.
We have recently established specialist clinics in Edinburgh and Glasgow for the evaluation and management of dyslexia in children. For many dyslexics the use of special tinted lenses can dramatically improve reading skills and quality of life.
For more information contact Alison Sydserff on 0141 221 8062 or Brenda Rainford on 0131 336 3004.
Case Study
Elliot Mackie, aged 9, visited our Albert Drive practice in April 99 for an eye exam as he was having some problems with his reading. On examination our optometrist, Colin Black, suspected dyslexia so decided to carry out some special tests.
Elliot was asked to try reading with special tinted overlays and was found to be best with orange and blue tints. The "rate of reading" test showed that Elliot could read 84 words per minute which improved to 116 with the overlays (normal is around 120).
Elliot was given a pair of tinted spectacles, and during the following months his reading continued to improve. At his annual eye exam the following year he was found to be much happier. The recent report from his educational psychologist noted "a significant improvement".
It is estimated that up to 30% of children whose reading performance is below that expected from their IQ or their other abilities could be helped by this test and the use of tinted spectacles.