I recently had a vision therapy eval for my child. What came out of it was that he has difficulty focusing. Many of the vision tests showed weaknesses that are typical of ADD children. Has anyone taken the route of Vision therapy? Did it help?
Susan
Re: Vision Problem of ADD?
Vision therapy made an extraordinary difference in my son’s life. When very young (kindergarten) he was considered one of the earliest, best readers. With each passing grade reading became more and more difficult. Also, he never looked anyone straight in the eye and his eyes were always moving. He had what is called a severe convergence insufficiency and a visual tracking problem. Vision therapy took a long time - my son is also bipolar and he was not medically stable so his concentration was even worse than your average ADHD child - but the difference was dramatic. His reading improved incredibly, he looks you in the eye when he talks, he doesn’t skip words when reading, and as a result his comprehension improved.
If you live anywhere near Long Island, I can suggest a fabulous vision therapist. Let me know if you need a recommendation.
Bonnie
Re: Vision Problem of ADD?
Susan,
Did your doctor quote you any research showing a link between vision problems and ADHD or any research showing that vision therapy reduces ADHD symptoms? I am curious because I have heard of it being helpful for certain LDs, and, of course, for things like convergence and tracking issues, but not as a treatment for ADHD per se.
Andrea
Re: Vision Problem of ADD?
Hi Andrea. Some visions therapists say the therapy helps ADD, which really is not correct. What it helps is the co-morbid conditions that are often found with ADD, such as the reading difficulties. It also helps attention issues IF they are related to the vision.
Re: Vision Problem of ADD?
We just finished 18 sessions of Vision Therapy-it has made a large difference in his attitude about reading-he can read without eye fatigue and also is reading the words in the right order which is a BIG help with comprehension. He now understands what he is reading and enjoys it-he read Harry Potter 1, 2 and 3 while in therapy (for homework) and is now starting 4.
He also has Visual Processing issues that we have chosen to deal with at home with a computer program purchased from the Developmental Optometrist rather than subject an ADHD child to missing half of his football practices to attend more therapy.
I saw 2 different docs before making a decision because I did not like the 1st. There is a website on “Eyeteaming” or “Binocular Dysfunction” which explains a lot and also lists docs in your area who are QUALIFIED to perform this therapy. I found that it was worth the time. effort and money.
I believe vision therapy would help. My daughter has been in vision therapy, but they also do a number of motor developmental exercises. After a few months I noticed a general improvement in her reading and in other areas, such as language. I think any time you address what can be the underlying problem, you will see improvement.