Colorimeter Eye Tests

For some people the process of viewing black print on white paper or computer screen can produce symptoms of visual discomfort, distortion of the text and ultimately lead to headaches.

Whilst this can be true for any reader, these problems are particularly common amongst those who have reading difficulties and dyslexia.

It has been found that many of the symptoms given above can be relieved by the use of a specific colour. The optimum colour required varies from person to person. For example, the colour change bar at the top of this web page allows you to experiment with this effect on the background text of this page.

Before considering the possible use of colour as a long term solution, it is essential that a full eye-examination should be carried out. Any visual anomaly may be the result of a need for an ocular correction or for visual training. These aspects of vision must be professionally investigated first and then treated as necessary.

WCDA members have used local opticians for this testing, and currently they can recommend Whitehaven and Workington Specsavers. All opticians will charge for this service, get quotes to compare charging rates, as they can vary greatly.

Previously (in 2006) Specsavers website carried an article about a testing scheme they carried out in Huddersfield, and another how colorimetry and tinted specs changed the lives of two children from Louth. However these articles now (July2007) seem to have been removed .

Many other websites have articles containing additional information on this test. A Google search will quickly return many results. For example

Bda: Eyes and Dyslexia

Cmt-optometrists

The Eyecare Trust

Disclaimer
Please remember, all advice, articles and links to other sites are offered under the terms of the WCDA disclaimer.

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West Cumbria Dyslexia Association: Contact Doris Pearce 07863 329747

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