Eye conditions

When an eye condition (such as cataracts) is identified, people should be referred to the hospital eye clinic for treatment if needed. Careful attention and regular eye tests are important for people with learning disabilities to identify any visual impairment or eye condition, so that they can get the right support.

People with diagnosed eye conditions need prompt access to treatment to avoid sight loss which can often be irreversible.

Abigail having an eye test

Diabetes

Diabetes is a medical condition that causes problems with your body processing blood sugars or blood glucose.
Susie who has cataracts

Cataracts

For people with cataracts, their sight might get blurry or unclear, and it might be uncomfortable to see in bright light.
Nasir

Keratoconus

If you have keratoconus your cornea slowly changes shape, which can make your eyesight worse.
Grace

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is caused by fluid building up in the eye, causing pressure which can damage your eye. 
Nasir

Down’s syndrome

People with Down’s syndrome will have some level of learning disability and are more likely to have problems with their eyes.

Useful resources for eye conditions

Monocular Vision

This factsheet aims to give carers and supporters of people with learning disabilities a good understanding of monocular vision and the challenges it presents.
Download
Kiyana wearing glasses

Kiyana's story

"SeeAbility has done a fantastic job finding just the right glasses for Kiyana. She looks after her glasses all by herself, keeping them clean and putting them away in their case properly.

She loves wearing them all the time and she’s a different girl now. Kiyana has improved so much since wearing her glasses, we have seen a real difference and she is so much more confident."

Read Kiyana's story
Kiyana wearing glasses

You may also be interested in

Adam having an eye test

Eye tests

Without regular eye tests, there is a risk of permanent sight loss from eye conditions that could have been treated.
Lee having an eye test

Eye health

Adults and children with learning disabilities are far more likely to have a serious sight problem than other people, so eye health is extremely important.  
Emily having 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.

Back to eye care