People with autism experience difficulty in processing and responding to information from their senses, making visual problems really common. Visual dysfunction is typically characterized by poor eye contact, staring at spinning objects or light, sudden peripheral glances and difficulties attending visually.
Here are some common vision dysfunction commonly seen in children and adults in the autism spectrum.
Visual Dysfunction & Autism
Autistic individuals may also experience poor central and peripheral vision coordination. When asked to follow an object with their eyes, they tend to look around it, instead of the object itself. Crossed eyes and eye movement disorders are also common vision issues.
Most people with less severe cases of autism manifest more subtle visual processing problems. They are attracted to highly charged visual stimulation, making them skilled with video games and computers. These kids are often called visual learners because they respond better to things they can see and touch.
Keep in mind that a strong visual system is not always efficient. Visit your local eye care center, Guilford Eye Center, for comprehensive ophthalmologic evaluation of your vision status.
Treatment Goals
After a patient has undergone a comprehensive eye exam to determine vision problems, the treatment can begin. The treatment aims to help patients with autism to organize visual space, obtain peripheral stability, improve central vision, have better eye coordination and encourage visual information processing.
Eye exams can help with the early detection and treatment of vision issues, especially in children. This is important because visual problems can hinder learning and development. For your family’s eye care needs, you can turn to Guilford Eye Center. We offer contact lenses, eyeglasses and treatment for different eye diseases. Call us at (336) 387-6777, or fill in our online form to schedule an appointment. We help patients in High Point, NC.