Eye and vision problems associated with learning disabilities
Tizard Learning Disability Review
ISSN: 1359-5474
Article publication date: 7 August 2019
Issue publication date: 13 August 2019
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to educate professionals, families and supporters about the importance of ensuring regular eye examinations for the people with learning disabilities.
Design/methodology/approach
This is a general review of the type and prevalence of visual problems of which people with learning disabilities are most at risk.
Findings
Eye problems in people with learning disabilities are common but are often over-looked.
Practical implications
Uncorrected refractive errors mean that people are unnecessarily denied experiences and learning opportunities. Spectacles are a simple solution, and most people can be supported to wear them. Cataracts and keratoconus are conditions that can lead to visual impairment, but which are now treatable and learning disabilities should not be a contra-indication to treatment. Untreatable eye conditions mean lifelong visual impairment, but if this is not recognised, care may be inappropriate or the learning disability assumed to be greater than it is.
Originality/value
The review describes how families and supporters can organise successful eye examinations, to ensure that no-one with learning disabilities has an eye condition that is not managed appropriately.
Keywords
Citation
Woodhouse, J.M. (2019), "Eye and vision problems associated with learning disabilities", Tizard Learning Disability Review, Vol. 24 No. 3, pp. 126-134. https://doi.org/10.1108/TLDR-01-2019-0001
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited