Eye tests
Anyone with a learning disability should be assumed to have sight loss unless proven otherwise. Research shows that adults with learning disabilities are ten times more likely to have serious sight problems.
- People with learning disabilities are less likely to be able to raise concerns about their eyes and vision.
- An eye test with an optometrist is the best way to check how well someone can see and that their eyes are healthy.
- Adults should have an eye test every two years, or more often if required.
- Everyone can have an eye test – you don’t need to be able to read or speak.
A person with learning disabilities is entitled to receive an eye test that meets their needs. This should usually be carried out at an optometrist’s practice or it can be at the person’s home if needed.
Without regular eye tests, there is a risk of permanent sight loss from eye conditions that could have been treated. An eye test can also detect other health concerns, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Everyone can have an eye test – you don’t need to be able to read or speak
Eye tests are important and, with the right support, they are possible for everyone.
We are keen to make sure that eye care services are connected to as many people with learning disabilities as possible.
If you know someone who would struggle to have a regular eye test, has not had an eye test recently or you have concerns about their vision, read through our free resources to find out how you can support them to get better eye care.
Booking and preparing for an eye test
What happens at an eye test
After an eye test
Find an optometrist
Search our database of optometrists and dispensing opticians who have shared information on their services for people with learning disabilities.
Eye care resources
Search our resources which have been created to help people with learning disabilities, families, supporters and eye care and learning disability professionals.
The Bradford Visual Function Box
People with learning disabilities are 10x more likely to have serious sight problems. But traditional eye tests can be challenging. The Bradford Visual Function Box's innovative approach means you don't need to communicate to have your eyes tested.
Everyone can have an eye test – you don’t need to be able to read or speak.
NHS England's Special School Eye Care Services
Based on our research, NHS England has responded by committing in their Long Term Plan to providing a fully funded eye care and glasses service to all special school students.
What areas have local eye testing services for people with learning disabilities?
In six areas around the country we've worked with local eye care services and the Local Optical Committee Support Unit (LOCSU) to improve access for people with moderate and severe learning disabilities. These areas now offer 'pathways', which means longer appointments through opticians who have had additional training on supporting people with learning disabilities, including about using easy read information and being able to test people who find it hard to talk.
- North West England (Greater Manchester, Cheshire & Merseyside and Lancashire and South Cumbria)
- London Borough of Sutton
- Durham
LOCSU pathway (easy read)
This is an easy read document
If you are an eye care professional and you would like to use or adapt our forms, or want any help or advice in developing/improving eye care services for people with a learning disability, then please contact Steve Kill (National Manager - Eye Care and Vision) on 07738 040 307 or email s.kill@seeability.org.