Dyslexia

Reading requires a complex array of skills to work in concert. When one or a combination of these processes do not work in harmony, then reading becomes a struggle. Eye movements are an important component in reading – both in dyslexics and non-dyslexics.

Clinical studies indicate that up to 70% of dyslexics have significantly worse eye movements than their normally-reading counterparts. Research also shows that eye movements can be improved through training. One study showed that 80% of its dyslexic subjects improved their eye movements by the end of the study.

Even more excitingly, these studies show that improvements in eye movements in dyslexics can transfer to improvements in reading. In one study, dyslexics showed a 50% decrease in reading errors after targeted eye movement training.

Of course, eye movements are not the only factor contributing to reading struggles. However, improving one of the contributing factors may go a long way in helping students who struggle with reading.

For more information, contact Dr. Edward Fong and Bright Eye Care & Vision Development.

References:

Seassau M, Gerard CL, Bui-Quoc E, Bucci MP. Binocular saccade coordination
in reading and visual search: a developmental study in typical reader and
dyslexic children. Front Integr Neurosci 2014;8:85.

Tiadi A, Gerard CL, Peyre H, Bui-Quoc E, et al. Immaturity of visual fixations
in dyslexic children. Front Hum Neurosci 2016;10:58.

Bucci MP, Nassibi N, Gerard CL, Bui-Quoc E. Immaturity of the oculomotor
saccade and vergence interaction in dyslexic children: evidence from a reading
and visual search study. PLoS One 2012;7(3):e33458.

Fischer B, Hartnegg K. Effects of visual training on saccade control in dyslexia.
Perception 2000;29(5):531-42.

Fischer B, Hartnegg K. Saccade control in dyslexia: development, deficits, training and transfer to reading. Optom Vis Dev 2008;39(4):181-90.

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