Up to 50% of people with Down’s syndrome will need to wear glasses, we have target a number of areas covering various aspect of vision.

In 2011 following concerns from some of our members about poorly fitting glasses, we carried out a survey of both children and adults to see how big the problem was. A massive 45% of respondents did not think their glasses were comfortable, and most comments were made about improvement to overall fit. Here is a small selection

• “better fitting frames that fit bridge of nose and over the ears correctly”
• “better styles of glasses that will fit adequately”
• “Nobody has been able to help about glasses sliding down because of my nose shape”.

The Fit it Right, See it Bright campaign aims to ensure that the professionals such as, opticians, optometrists and frame suppliers are aware of the problems faced by people with Down’s syndrome.

We want to see –

• Improved communication between the professionals and people with Down’s syndrome
• Better use of available resources for testing purposes
• Awareness within the professional field of the use of bi-focal lens
• Availability of better fitting glasses
• Availability of extended eye test if required
• Free spare pair of glasses.
• Allowance for modification of glasses dependent on need rather than on restrictive facial dimensions. (Currently the majority of people with Down’s syndrome do not meet criteria due to specific facial characteristics associated with the condition).

For further information about vision in people with Down’s syndrome go here