1 in 3 people with a learning disability has a sight problem. Many of these sight problems might be correctable by glasses. However some people may be living with sight problems that have been undiagnosed or unnoticed by those who support them. 

A Functional Vision Assessment is an observational tool. It can be used to recognise how a person with learning disabilities might be using their sight. It can give an indication of what a person might not see, or have difficulty seeing. 

Many people with learning disabilities may not be able to tell others if they have a sight problem. A Functional Vision Assessment can be an effective way of recognising the sight difficulties people with learning disabilities might be experiencing. 

A Functional Vision Assessment is an excellent starting point for supporting someone to have potential sight problem recognised. The information gained from an assessment should be shared with the person’s optometrist and with specialist workers for the visually impaired. Doing so helps the person get the best support and advice. 

The Functional Vision Assessment does not replace the need for an eye examination provided by an eye care specialist such as an optometrist, or an assessment undertaken by a rehabilitation worker for the Visually Impaired.

This Functional Vision Assessment was created by SeeAbility’s eye 2 eye Campaign.  It is intended to be used by supporters of people with learning disabilities who know that person well, such as family carers and support staff.  We hope that this Functional Vision Assessment will also be a useful resource for eye care professionals, rehabilitation officers for the visually impaired and others engaged in the support of people with learning disabilities.

Find out more by following this link - Click Here