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Vision profile of deaf children
American Journal of Optometry and Physiological Optics
|August 1, 1976
Summary
This study assessed vision in 77 deaf children, finding lower-than-average myopia rates but significant visual perceptual motor deficiencies in nearly half the participants.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Developmental Psychology
- Special Education
Background:
- Deaf children often have unique developmental needs.
- Vision is crucial for learning and development, especially in deaf populations.
- Previous research on vision in deaf children is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively assess the vision status of deaf children.
- To identify any significant differences in vision compared to the general population.
- To investigate specific areas including refractive status and visual perceptual motor function.
Main Methods:
- Vision screening of 77 deaf children from Beverly School for the Deaf.
- Evaluation across six key areas: visual acuity, refractive status, binocularity, color vision, pathology, and visual perceptual motor function.
- Analysis of results focusing on differences from previously studied populations.
Main Results:
- Myopia prevalence was 5.8%, significantly lower than in the general population.
- Nearly 50% of children exhibited deficiencies in at least one visual perceptual motor area (visual memory, spatial organization, Gesell copy forms).
- Deficiencies were noted in visual perceptual motor function, differing from prior research.
Conclusions:
- Deaf children may have a lower incidence of myopia.
- Visual perceptual motor skills are a significant area of concern for deaf children.
- Further targeted interventions for visual perceptual motor deficits are warranted.