Vision therapy can be beneficial for both children and adults. The success of the treatment depends on specific visual conditions. It is independent of their age. Yet, many patients believe they are too old to improve their vision, which is a misconception.
The brain remains flexible and adaptable throughout life. That makes vision therapy effective for adults as well as children. Some adults show faster improvement than children due to their motivation to succeed. It can also benefit kids, enhancing their performance in school and sports.
Vision therapy, or vision training, is a form of physical therapy that aims to improve one’s visual system. It involves various exercises and techniques that help the eyes work together better and improve visual tracking, focus, and eye movements. Those who can benefit from vision training include the following:
Many kids with learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, have visual processing problems. These issues can impede their ability to read, write, and learn. Vision training can help improve eye tracking, teaming, and visual processing skills. That can make a significant difference in their academic performance.
Strabismus is a condition where one eye turns in or out, causing double vision and poor depth perception. Vision therapy can help train the eyes to work together better, improving binocular vision and depth perception.
Amblyopia, also known as “lazy eye,” is a condition where one eye is weaker. That results in poor vision in that eye. Vision training can help strengthen the weaker eye and improve visual acuity.
Traumatic brain injury can result in various visual problems. That includes double vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty focusing. Vision therapy can help address these issues and improve overall visual function.
People who spend lots of time reading, writing, or working on a computer may experience visual stress or fatigue. That can lead to headaches, eye strain, and other discomforts. Vision therapy can help improve optical efficiency and reduce eye strain.
Athletes, especially those in sports that require hand-eye coordination, can benefit from vision training. The exercises and techniques used during therapy can improve visual processing speed, depth perception, and peripheral vision. That can help give them a competitive edge.
Convergence insufficiency is when the eyes have difficulty converging or turning inward, to focus on near objects. That can cause eye strain, headaches, and double vision. Vision therapy can help improve the ability to converge and reduce symptoms.
As people age, they may experience a deterioration in visual function. They may experience difficulty reading, driving, and seeing in low light. Vision training can help improve visual processing and other skills. That can make it easier for seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life.
Autism spectrum disorder can affect visual processing. That can lead to difficulties with eye contact, visual tracking, and other skills. Vision therapy can help to improve these skills and make it easier for individuals with ASD to communicate and interact with others.
Binocular vision disorders are conditions in which the eyes do not work together. That usually results in double vision, depth perception problems, and other issues. Vision training can help train the eyes to work together better.
Vision therapy can benefit various people. If you or someone you know has visual problems, it is essential to consult an eye care professional. They will determine if vision therapy is a suitable option.
For more on vision therapy, visit 730 North Optometry at our Libertyville, Illinois, office. Call (847) 362-9900 to schedule an appointment today.