Blind Visually Impaired
Blind/Visually Impaired
If student exhibits one or more of these signs of possible eye trouble, professional eye care should be sought. After a child has had an evaluation by an eye doctor with a diagnosis of a visual impairment, the teacher of the visually impaired may be consulted concerning the referral process.
Possible Indicators of Vision Loss
Behavior:
- Rubs eyes excessively
- Shuts or covers one eye
- Tilts head or thrusts head forward
- Has difficulty with reading or other close-up work; holds objects close to eyes
- Blinks more than usual or is irritable when doing close-up work
- Is unable to see distant things clearly
- Squints eyelids together or frowns
Appearance:
- Crossed eyes
- Red-rimmed, encrusted or swollen eyelids
- Inflamed or watery eyes
- Recurring styes (infections) on eyelids
Complaints:
- Eyes itch, burn or feel scratchy
- Cannot see well
- Dizziness, headaches or nausea following close-up work
- Blurred or double vision
How is the student affected?
- Limited ability in accessing educational media without modifications
- Limited ability to access full range of materials or media without accommodating actions (changes in posture, squinting, focal distance, etc.)
- Variable visual ability due to environmental factors
- Reduced ability due to visual fatigue
- See Orientation & Mobility web site for mobility concerns
Next Steps
- Discuss concerns with parents
- Review student's past history (academic, medical, etc.)
- Talk to previous teachers. Talk to counselors
- Follow school district's referral procedure
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For more information: Josh Nelson |