Parents worry about their children that are having trouble learning to read or write. Eye exercises are recommended for children who need help. Eye exercises are also called vision training or vision therapy. Even if it is recommended, there is no scientific evidence that they are effective. Some adults try to use eye exercises to improve their eyesight.
There has been a statement about vision therapy that was issued in 2014. The American Academy of Ophthalmology contributed to the statement that says there is no enough scientific evidence that supports the claim that visual problems can cause learning disabilities. Also, it does not support the effectiveness of vision therapy or tinted lenses. The claim about vision therapy improves visual efficiency cannot be justified because there is no adequate proof.
Is It True That Eye Exercise Apps Can Eliminate Reading Glasses?
People spend most of their time scrolling in their smartphones. There has been a new eye exercise app available in smartphones that claim it can help adults to get rid of their reading glasses. According to Stephen N. Lipsky, MD, an ophthalmologist who specializes in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus, the apps are scientifically unproven. Any eye exercise program does not reduce or eliminate the need for glasses as there is no scientific evidence for this claim.
Most adults around the age of 40 develop presbyopia which is an eye condition where an individual loses the ability to see things up close. Dr. Lipsky reminded people that no matter what you do, it is inevitable as you age to need a higher power of reading glasses. Presbyopia has available treatments which include contact lenses or refractive surgery.
Can Eye Exercise Help in Convergence Insufficiency?
Eye exercises are ineffective for eye conditions such as farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism. Although eye exercises may be helpful for convergence insufficiency. It is an eye condition where the eyes do not coordinate together when a person is trying to focus. Vision therapy can help in increasing the ability of the eyes to work together. People with convergence insufficiency have difficulty in reading.
“Pencil pushups” is one of the treatments for convergence insufficiency. It makes the person focus on the small letter on the side of a pencil as it moves closer to the bridge of her or his nose. Eye-focusing exercises that are available on the computer may also be recommended by ophthalmologists for convergence insufficiency only. As for aging eyes, eye exercises are not always the answer. Visit your ophthalmologist to discuss and determine the best way to correct your vision.
