Learning disabilities

People with learning disabilities are 10 times more likely to have serious sight problems.

You may not know if someone has a sight problem. There may be no obvious signs of poor eye health or even sight loss.

This is why we recommend that everyone with a learning disability has a eye test every two years or more often if advised.

Sight problems are so common for people with learning disabilities, you should assume that someone has a sight problem unless it’s proven that they don’t.

Booking and preparing for an eye test

• People with learning disabilities need good support to help them get the most from their eye test.

• When booking the appointment, please make sure you say it is for a person with learning disabilities. 

The support provided by the carer or family member is equally important. 

• Ensure that the person is accompanied on the day by someone who knows them well.

There are many different ways which we can test someone’s eyes – download a guide to find out more.

It would be helpful if you could complete the downloadable form about my eyes, with the person and bring it along to the eye examination.