Research
Children's Vision Care in the 21st Century and Its Impact on Education, Literacy, Social Issues, and The Workplace: A CALL TO ACTION
Experts estimate vision problems are prevalent in 25% of all schoolchildren in the United States and are one of the most prevalent handicapping conditions in childhood.
However, research has shown, of children in the 9 to 15 years old age group, only 10% who needed eyeglasses actually had them.
Failure to detect and treat children’s vision disorders affects the rates of adult criminality, literacy and labor productivity.
85% of Title I students in the fifth through eighth grades, and academically and behaviorally at-risk children ages 8 to 18, had vision problems that were either undetected or untreated.
Children must be screened for vision problems throughout their school years. These screenings should include multiple tests to identify a wider spectrum of vision problems especially those affecting near-vision.
Resources should be provided for those who cannot afford eye exams or glasses for their children.
SUMMARY
Experts estimate vision problems are prevalent in 25% of all schoolchildren in the United States and are one of the most prevalent handicapping conditions in childhood. However, research has shown, of children in the 9 to 15 years old age group, only 10% who needed eyeglasses actually had them.
Children with undiagnosed and untreated vision problems grow up to become adults with undiagnosed and untreated vision problems. The failure to detect and treat children’s vision disorders affects the rates of adult criminality, literacy and labor productivity.
Children must have the vision care and vision skills required in order to perform successfully in school and workplace environments. As children progress through their school years they must be checked regularly for vision problems. These screenings or examinations should include multiple tests to identify a wider spectrum of vision problems, especially those affecting near-vision. Parents must be educated on these points so they do not defer vision care for their children. Resources should be provided for those who cannot afford eye exams or glasses for their children, as well as to make it easier for follow through.