Special Needs Eye Exam

At Behold Family Eye Care, we have the privilege of providing eye care to patients with special needs in the greater Austin area, including patients with Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, or other developmental delay. By adapting our space and techniques, we are able to accommodate varying cognitive levels, and will evaluate eye coordination, glasses prescription, ocular health, and visual function with extra time and care.

Family members, teachers, and therapists are welcome to accompany our patients, so that we can help answer any specific questions or concerns related to vision and eye health. Each exam starts with medical and ocular history to obtain a full picture of our patients’ needs. From there, testing is tailored to the individual, using subjective and objective measurements.

Can You Check Vision Without An Eye Chart?

Yes! Vision measurements can be taken for minimally verbal or non-verbal patients without the use of a standard eye chart. During our adapted exam, “preferential looking” methods determine the patient’s level of vision. Grey cards are held at specified distances from the patient, with only one side of the card displaying either black and white stripes, or an outline of a shape. If the patient is able to distinguish the stripes or shape, they will consistently look to that side. The stripes/outline get more narrow and start to approach the patient’s vision threshold, so they see both sides as “grey.” This threshold corresponds to the standard eye chart and determines the patient’s level of vision. We can use this information in school, therapy, and work settings to recommend accommodations such as minimum font size.

How Do You Obtain A Glasses Prescription?

Dilation is often required for patients with special needs. Using drops to dilate, or enlarge, the pupil provides a view of all the structures in the back of the eye. Dilation also allows us to measure the patient’s prescription objectively. Dr. Lischau will look through lenses in front of the patient’s eyes with a beam of light. The eye reflects light differently for each type of prescription: hyperopia (farsightedness), myopia (nearsightedness), and astigmatism. This method, called retinoscopy, is how we prescribe glasses to non-verbal patients and newborns.
​​​​​​​

Come See the Difference!

Dr. Lischau and her team at Behold Family Eye Care are here to meet each patient’s individual needs with compassion. We believe that every patient deserves quality eye care, and we aim to protect your and your family’s vision for years to come!