Eyes
People who have Down’s syndrome are more likely to have difficulties with their eyesight – up to half will need to wear glasses. It is vital that children, young people and adults have regular eye checks to minimise the effects of any sight difficulty they have.
The UK Down’s Syndrome Medical Interest Group suggest the following basic minimum eye checks for babies and children who have Down’s syndrome:
Birth to 6 weeks
– Newborn routine check including congenital cataract check.
Age 18 to 24 months
– Formal eye and vision examination including check for squint, and refraction for long or short sight.
Age 4 years
– Formal eye and vision examination including check for
squint. Refraction, assessment of near, distant vision, and visual acuity.
School age
– Repeat vision test every 2 years, or more frequently if recommended by optometrist or ophthalmologist or if concerns.
About Eye Conditions
Teenagers and adults who have Down’s syndrome should have a full assessment by an optician/optometrist at least every 2 years (or more frequently if there is a change in vision is suspected). Management of eyes and treatment for vision is important for learning and development. Read more about vision, learning and development here
Anyone who has Down’s syndrome (age 14 years and over) is entitled to a free annual health check with their GP – vision should be discussed as part of this check. This is in addition to regular eye assessments from a specialist – it does not replace them.
Even when people are wearing correctly fitted glasses, they will still have poor visual acuity. In practice, this means their world lacks firm details and sharp contrasts. This is the case for everyone who has Down’s syndrome. There are links to resources below about visual acuity and how to help people overcome this difficulty.
If a person’s behaviour has changed, they appear confused and/or have lost skills , it is always a good idea to check for an underlying medical cause such as changes in vision. They may not be able to tell you their sight has changed.
Further Info & Advice
If you have any questions about health issues, you can call DSA’s Helpline (Tel: 0333 1212 300) or email using info@downs-syndrome.org.uk. If an information officer is unable to answer your question, they can make a referral to the medical adviser at the UK & Ireland Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (DSMIG).
Please note DSMIG can provide general advice about health issues but they are not able to comment on individual test results. DSMIG are happy to take enquiries from health professionals but they will not take direct from enquiries from families or supporters.
Resources and useful organisations
Down’s Syndrome Association
Other
Cardiff University Down’s syndrome Vision Research Unit
Information for professionals, supporters and families.
SeeAbility
Easy read information about eyes, eye tests and glasses. A searchable database of optometrists and opticians who have shared. Information on their services for people who have learning disabilities.
Books Beyond Words
Resources for people who have learning disabilities.