Seeing distance and near clearly is only one small function of our eyes. Being able to keep the picture single and in focus are two more. However, there are many other skills our eyes are used for that contribute to the way that we see. These skills have a significant impact on the way that we learn as well.
These skills are visual perceptual skills. Unfortunately, they are not quickly tested in an exam room like visual acuity. These skills are developed over time, and need to be tested with specific standardized tests to see if they are working for, or against, us. In the next few blog posts, I will break down the different areas that we test for in our Visual Perceptual Evaluation (VPE) at our office. Some of the areas that will be covered are:
Laterality and directionality
Visual perceptual issues can also seem like dyslexia, however they are both very different diagnoses. As optometrists, we do not diagnose or treat dyslexia, however we do diagnose and treat visual perceptual issues. Visual perceptual issues can be treated! Vision therapy is key in treatment of these issues, and also solving any binocular vision issues that may be present as well.
Stay tuned, and let me know what you think!
–Dr. Z
