What is behavioural optometry?
Behavioural optometry looks at the way that vision is linked to learning and development.
This is helpful for children who may be struggling with reading, writing, visual perception, concentration or hand-eye co-ordination. A behavioural optometrists examination includes all of the parts of a regular comprehensive eye test as well as looking at the way the visual system is linked to learning. Further testing such as a vision information processing test may be recommended, or vision therapy may be recommend to improve the co-ordination of the eyes.
You do not need a referral to see a behavioural optometrist, and the consultation can often be covered under Medicare. For more information and evidence about behavioural optometry, visit https://www.acbo.org.au/for-patients/evidence
What is a Vision Information Processing test?
As well as checking your vision and health of your eyes, we also offer Vision Information Processing (VIP) Assessments which analyse the way that information is processed by the brain. This is particularly recommended for children who may exhibit:
- Reading or writing difficulties at school
- Reversals
- Trouble following words on the page, including skipping words
- Poor concentration
- Struggle with processing visual information
Our optometrist who is part of the Australian College of Behavioural Optometry (ACBO), aims to identify a child’s pattern of strengths and weaknesses that may be affecting academic performance. The areas which are addressed include:
- Eye movements
- Visual motor integration
- Visual spatial skills
- Visual analysis skills
Your child’s results will be compared against the age-appropriate expected levels, and from this we can make recommendations which may include a program of vision therapy that will target any deficient areas found.
What is vision therapy?
Vision therapy involves challenging and fun activities which will improve the way information is processed and can help to improve the alignment and focussing of the eyes
Vision therapy is used to treat problems such as lazy eye, eye alignment, eye co-ordination, poorly sustained near focus, poor hand-eye co-ordination and lower than expected visual thinking and understanding. It can enhance the efficiency and comfort of your vision and help to prevent some visual problems.
After receiving vision therapy treatment, patients find that their vision performance should improve overall – depending on the initial problem, this can improve performance in the classroom or their sporting abilities. Vision Therapy will make it easier to learn visually but you may still need to catch up on areas that are falling behind academically.
Each program of vision therapy must be designed to suit the specific needs of the person and typically lasts between 8-12 in office sessions which last for 40 minutes each, and occur every 1-2 weeks. These activities will be completed at our ’ practice, as well as exercises at home. The frequency of appointments, and duration of the course of vision therapy with vary depending on the nature of the problem being treated and the specific needs of the patient.
If you would like to book a behavioural optometry assessment, please book online or call us on 9460 9133