Failing the Eye Exam: A Neglected Health Issue in Schools

It’s no question that eye health is important, especially for students who spend a majority of their days staring at a computer screen or reading textbooks. However, failing the eye exam is a neglected health issue in schools.

According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), one in four children has an undiagnosed vision problem that can interfere with their learning. These problems can range from nearsightedness and farsightedness to more serious conditions such as lazy eye and color blindness.

Unfortunately, many schools only offer vision screenings rather than comprehensive eye exams. A vision screening is a basic test that checks for visual acuity, but it does not examine the overall health of the eyes. The AOA recommends that children have a comprehensive eye exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist at least once every two years, or more often if recommended by the eye doctor.

Dr. Dolan, the optometrist at 2020 Vision in Rochester Hills MI, stresses the importance of yearly eye exams for children. He explains that vision problems can impact a child’s ability to read and learn, which can lead to frustration in the classroom and ultimately negatively impact their academic performance.

Furthermore, vision problems can affect a child’s social life and extracurricular activities. Children with untreated vision problems may struggle with coordination and depth perception, making it difficult to participate in sports or other physical activities.

By neglecting the importance of comprehensive eye exams, we are failing our children. It’s crucial that schools prioritize vision health by properly identifying and treating vision problems early on.

If you suspect that your child may be experiencing vision problems or if it’s been more than two years since their last eye exam, contact Dr. Dolan at 2020 Vision in Rochester Hills MI. Don’t let your child fall behind simply because of an undiagnosed vision problem.

Contact 2020 Vision at 248-375-0040 to schedule an appointment today.