Behavioural Optometry
What Is Behavioural Optometry?
Behavioural optometry is a holistic system of eye care that can use vision therapy or training lenses as a means to improve the way a patient uses his or her eyes.
The way you interpret what you see depends on more than just how clear your vision is. Because of this, behavioural optometry goes beyond simply prescribing glasses to compensate for eyesight weaknesses, teaching patients to use their eyes more efficiently for complex visual tasks.
What is checked during a behavioural optometry assessment?
Our Behavioural Optometry Assessment includes a review of all aspects of the visual system, including the patient’s clarity of vision, eye focusing, eye coordination, visual motor, visual memory, visual analysis and visual processing skills.
By checking all aspects of vision, we can provide advice on managing a wide variety of eyesight difficulties. We can also offer information on the benefits of prevention, protection and enhancement of the patient’s visual system to improve all areas of visual performance.
At Stephen Daly Optometrist, our behavioural optometry service focuses on children, particularly those with learning difficulties, autism and ADHD.
For example, if children have difficulty keeping their place on the page while reading, behavioural optometry can teach them to move their eyes more accurately which will assist the development of their reading skills.
What are the benefits of behavioural optometry?
A common outcome of taking part in a behavioural optometry program is that children tend to find it easier to learn, as they can respond more effectively to classroom teaching due to improved visual skills. This can help build their self-confidence and their willingness to try more things.
Many parents report that their child is communicating and interacting more following vision therapy because it has become easier for them to notice and process visual information.
What should I expect From My Appointment?
Our examination includes a wide range of questions and tests that will help us determine the patient’s overall visual abilities.
After a full assessment of the visual system, a vision therapy program may be prepared that will include activities to help the eyes relax and develop new skills – or to relearn skills that have broken down under an increased workload.
Our young patients often find the tests and therapy good fun and are happy to participate!
If you would like to find out if and how behavioural optometry could benefit your child, book an appointment or get in touch with us today!
For more, visit the Australasian College of Behavioural Optometrists’ website: www.acbo.org.au.