As a newbie in a Neuro-Optometric Physicians’ office I was asked to comment on “What Does Vision Mean To You”. As most people do, I understand an optometrist to be someone who determines if a person needs glasses. If they do need glasses, the optometrist will determine the prescription needed by the patient. The end result will be the patient will have as close to 20/20 vision or sight as possible. This understanding is rapidly changing.
Vision and Sight
In the short time I’ve been here I have been enlightened as to some of the differences between sight and vision. I have heard several times that a person can have 20/20 sight but their vision is what is causing the problem that brings them to the doctor’s office. Vision is the brain’s interpretation of what the eyes are seeing. I had no idea that issues with vision can cause balance problems, reading problems, behavior issues, headaches and the list goes on. I am still learning about all the scenarios that can cause these problems.Vision Therapy
The most fascinating aspect of this practice is the therapy that is taught to patients. In many cases a patient can regain some lost control in their lives whether it is through their balance, posture, confidence, better reading skills, driving ability, outlook, and again the list goes on. Again, all these aspects of a patient’s life can be related to vision.
I have watched many patients come in the door for their first visit rather somber having been told that nothing more can be done. Then they leave the office with a smile because they have a better understanding of the issue they are dealing with and now they have renewed hope of improving their situation.
Vision is so much more complex than sight alone. I will never again think of vision and sight as being the same thing.
This post was a guest post from our new receptionist Kathryn.