Right to sight: accessing eye care for adults who are learning disabled

The existing uptake of eye care services by 146 learning disabled adults was investigated using a telephone questionnaire. It was found that 39 percent were receiving less eye care than the general population; those living either with families or independently were significantly less likely to have had an examination than people living with paid support staff; 30 percent of those previously examined had been diagnosed with eye problems; and 43 percent of those previously prescribed glasses were reported as unable to tolerate them. Eye examinations were offered to all participants and were found to be possible for all who attended.The implications for service provision and development are discussed.