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The Effect of Tinted Lenses on Dyslexia

Deepali Bindal

The Vision Centre , UMIST, Manchester D.Bindal@umist.ac.uk

Abstract

Research relating to investigation of accommodation and binocular vision and the role they play in reading disabilities is reviewed. Attempts are made to determine whether binocular vision and accommodative anomalies are correlates or causal factors of reading disability; based on research they are most likely to be correlates. Pattern glare and transient visual system deficits are also discussed as possible mechanisms by which colour overlays operate and research studying the effect that colour overlays have on each factor is examined. People who report visual distortions on reading that are alleviated by colour overlays are described as suffering from Meares-Irlen Syndrome.. The Irlen Differential Perceptual Schedule, which is used by the Irlen Centres to diagnose Meares-Irlen Syndrome, is examined and its flaws highlighted. Weaknesses of the studies are discussed, there are wide variations in protocol and these preclude firm conclusions being drawn. In the study 10 good readers and 9 dyslexics were recruited, the dyslexic group demonstrated lower amplitudes of accommodation and reduced positive fusional reserves. Reading performance was then assessed using the DAST one minute reading test with and without a colour overlay. Results indicated that the overlays have a beneficial effect over and above the practice effect. However further research is needed in this area.

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