Aging with Developmental Disabilities: Changes in Vision. Aging with Mental Retardation.

This fact sheet uses a question-and-answer format to provide basic information about changes in vision for older adults and what kind of services are needed particularly adults with developmental disabilities. Questions address the following topics: the importance of eye exams for adults with developmental disabilities; the need for eye exams even if the individual does not read or do other close work; recommended frequency of eye exams; types of eye care specialists; the exam; visual acuity; legal blindness; symptoms of a vision problem in an adult with developmental disabilities; information to provide the eye-care specialist; vision changes that are possibly more common in people with developmental disabilities; typical changes in vision as people age; common eye diseases of older people; diseases that can cause vision loss or blindness; how vision loss affects the adult with developmental disabilities; ways to make the best of existing vision capabilities; and other vision professionals who may provide additional ideas about making the most of remaining vision. A list of suggested print and organizational resources is attached. (DB)