Behavioural Optometry / Developmental Optometry

Behavioural Optometry (Also known as Developmental Optometry) is a speciailsation in optometry like orthodontics is a specialisation in dentistry. All optometrists will during a routine eye examination correct sight - for short-sightedness, long-sightedness or astigmatism – and examine a persons eyes and refer to an eye specialist should any abnormality be detected.

However, besides making sure their patients are healthy and see well, developmental optometrists are also concerned with how efficiently their patients’ vision allows them to function. In addition to providing a standard eye exam, developmental optometrists run additional tests to determine if their patients have developed the visual skills they need to adequately perform tasks required in their daily lives, especially at work or school.

For a number of years it has been recognised that there is a link between learning problems (including dyslexia), co-ordination problems (including dyspraxia), other behavioural problems including (ADD and autsitic spectrum) and vision. 

People who have these problems often exhibit a lack of visual development in some of the functional control and processing skills that will allow them to perform complex tasks. A person may have “perfect vision” ie be able to see 20/20 and be able to see small letters up close yet they will lack to visual skills to efficiently carry out vision tasks.

Behavioural optometrists have developped an extensive array of tests to assess visual development. There tests are assessed by measuring against normal abilities at specific ages amd can identify if vision is a contributary factor to the problems that the person is experiencing. These detailed examinations are called a Behavioural / Developmental optometry assessment.

Behavioural optometry uses a series of training regimes which are devised to help develop the missing skills and resolve visual and other related symptoms. This may include spectacles, prisms, filters or exercises (either in practice or at home).

David, our behavioural optometrist is accreditted with the British Association of Behavioural Optometrists and he is one of 3 such practitioners on the island of Ireland. We receive referrals from many sources including: parents, special needs / resource teachers, physiotherapists and occupational therapists.

 

If you or your child experience any of the visual signs listed on the link below or if you have any further queries please do not hesitate to contact us as a full behavioural optometry assessment may be advised.