Low Vision in Children | Low Vision Awareness Month

You might think that low vision is something that only happens to adults  but low vision and blindness can also develop in children. February is Low Vision Awareness Month. Understanding more about the causes of low vision in children is helpful in improving quality of life.

Causes of low vision in kids

Although low vision occurs much more often in adults, it can also affect children. There are several causes of low vision in children, including the following:

Pediatric cataracts: Cataracts can develop in children. A cataract involves a clouding of the lens in the eye. If not treated, it can lead to vision loss.

Albinism: Albinism is a rare condition that causes a lack of melanin in the body. This affects the pigment of the skin, eyes, and hair. It also can affect eyesight. It is a lifelong condition that a child is born with.

Nystagmus: Nystagmus involves a disorder in which the eyes move rapidly up and down or side to side uncontrollably. It can also lead to problems with vision.

In addition to the causes above, many children with low vision also have other developmental disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy, or hearing loss.
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Treatment 

Treatment for low vision in children depends on the underlying cause. For example, pediatric cataracts are treated with surgery to replace the lens.

Children with nystagmus may benefit from glasses. Although it does not fix the condition, having clearer vision may slow down eye movements. Some conditions that may lead to low vision, such as albinism, are not treatable.
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Coping with low vision in childhood 

Coping with low vision in children often involves some of the same strategies as adults use to improve functioning. For example, vision rehabilitation helps children learn how to improve independence and maximize functioning. In some cases, it involves training on using low vision aids and learning braille. But there are also special considerations when it comes to low vision and children. Consider the following:

Early intervention is key: Early intervention, including therapy and education, helps kids reach their full potential. Call your local office of education or school district to get more information on early intervention programs in your area.

Develop a partnership: Work with your child’s doctor and professionals, such as occupational therapists and teachers, to develop a comprehensive plan to support education and social development. 

Engage socially: Children that have low vision benefit from becoming involved socially with other children, both with and without visual impairments. Encourage kids to get involved with school activities and adaptive sports. There are also special camps and programs for children with low vision.

Seek experts: Enlist help from experts in the field of low vision. For instance, some occupational therapists, social workers, and vision rehabilitation therapists specialize in working with children with low vision. 

In addition to working with experts in your area, there are other resources that may be helpful. For example, national organizations for people with low vision can provide education, support, and information on where to access services in your area. The following organizations are a good place to start.

• National Federation for the Blind
• American Foundation for the Blind
• Easter Seals

We hope this information provides useful resources to deal with low vision in childhood. If you want more information or have questions, we are happy to help.

If you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.