Functional Vision Remediation Program

CSSMCW’s Functional Vision Remediation Program is designed to address visual impairments that hinder an individual’s ability to perform daily activities independently. Hosted within an outpatient occupational therapy setting, this program utilizes evidence-based techniques and personalized interventions to optimize visual function and enhance overall quality of life.

Through participation in our Functional Vision Remediation Program, clients experience improvements in visual skills, greater independence in daily activities, enhanced confidence, and an improved overall quality of life. Our goal is to empower individuals with visual impairments to maximize their potential and thrive in their personal and professional pursuits.

What are common symptoms indicating visual dysfunction?

Visual Behavioral Problems	Academic Problems
Headaches Clumsiness Squinting Rubbing eyes Head turn/tilt when reading Cover one eye when reading Excessive blinking when doing near work Blurry vision Complaints of words moving	Poor reading skills Poor handwriting Reduced visual motor integration Difficulty copying Reduced visual perception skills Avoidance of near vision tasks

How do I begin?

A thorough evaluation is conducted by a certified occupational therapist trained in vision remediation. Assessments encompass visual efficiency, including accommodation, binocular vision, and eye movements, as well as visual information processing.

Based on assessment findings and the individual’s specific goals, a tailored treatment plan is developed. This plan may include a variety of interventions aimed at improving visual skills, such as:

• focusing
• saccadic eye movements
• pursuits
• vergence
• visual motor integration
• visual spatial skills
• visual analysis

What does a remediation session entail?

Patients engage in structured vision remediation sessions utilizing equipment and activities to target identified deficits. These may include:

• ocular motor exercises and drills linked to functional activities
• visual processing
  • visual memory
  • form constancy
  • figure ground tasks
• activities to enhance eye-hand coordination for fine motor and gross motor control

Additionally, the therapist collaborates with patients to identify environmental modifications that can facilitate improved visual function in everyday settings. This may involve recommendations for lighting adjustments, use of assistive devices such as magnifiers or adaptive technology, and modifications to home or work environments.

Therapy sessions incorporate functional tasks relevant to the patient’s daily activities, such as reading, writing, and participating in daily and leisure activities simulated within the outpatient setting. Clients receive guidance and practice in applying newly acquired visual skills to real-world situations.