A new way of looking at attention deficit disorders

 

Local optometrist explores link between vision problems and ADHD symptoms

Patrick Quaid can remember when he was in high school, getting his older brother to read his textbooks aloud to him. Wrestling with a speech impediment and problems with his vision, he and his parents were told multiple times not to expect him to reach graduation.

Fast-forward to today: Quaid is an optometrist in Guelph and using his personal experiences to help children deal with their own vision issues. Through his research and his practice, he's become especially aware of a possible link between vision disorders and attention deficit disorders — a relationship he said hasn't been fully explored in the medical world.

Of the nine major symptoms used to diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, five symptoms are the same as those used to diagnose a common visual disorder: convergence insufficiency — the inability of the eyes to push together and focus on nearby objects. This is the same problem Quaid struggled with when he was younger......

Comments: To read the whole story, click the title above. Dr. Quaid is a friend and colleague of mine, a Fellow of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development and a great doc!!! DM

VT Works! An Interview with the Executive Director of COVD

VT Works! An Interview with the Executive Director of COVD

...For the benefit of our readers, can you explain how you are involved in Developmental Optometry?

I have the distinct pleasure of serving as the Executive Director of the College in Optometrists in Vision Development, or, much easier to remember, COVD. It’s hard to believe I’ve been with COVD for over seven years. It just proves the old saying, time flies when you’re having fun!....

Comments: Read more of this interview by VT Works blog by clicking the title above. DM

Is it a Boy or girl: A New Visual Acuity Test

Is It a Boy or Girl? A New Visual Acuity Test from Dominick Maino