As a parent or someone interested in vision health, it’s important to understand how vision works and how to take care of your eyes. Dr. Rick Graebe, a behavioral optometrist with more than 30 years of experience, offers valuable insights into how vision goes beyond what you might think. At his practice, Neuro-Visual Performance Institute, with locations in Versailles and Somerset, Kentucky, Dr. Graebe specializes in Vision Therapy, a kind of physical therapy for the eyes, brain, and body.
Here are six things you should know about vision:
1. Vision Happens in the Brain, Not the Eyes
One of the most surprising facts is that vision doesn’t actually occur in the eyes. The eyes are only responsible for capturing visual images and sending them to the brain, where the processing occurs. Vision is a feedback system involving the eyes, brain, and body. The brain interprets what we see, and this information flows both ways—between the eyes and brain, helping us navigate the world around us.
2. Not All Eye Doctors Are the Same
While all optometrists go through similar education, their expertise can differ significantly based on their focus after graduation. Some concentrate on eye diseases, while others specialize in areas like visual performance, contact lenses, pediatric vision, or Vision Therapy. Dr. Graebe’s expertise, for example, focuses on pediatric vision care and vision therapy, making him a go-to specialist for children’s visual needs in Central and Southern Kentucky.
3. Young Children Can Have Their Vision Checked
Even if a child is too young to communicate effectively or speak, eye doctors can assess their vision and eye health. Amblyopia, or “lazy eye,” is the leading cause of vision reduction in children under 10. Each year, about 75,000 three-year-olds are diagnosed with this condition, which can be corrected with early detection, glasses, and Vision Therapy. For this reason, it’s recommended that all children have their first eye exam by age three.
4. One Pair of Glasses Might Not Be Enough
You might think one pair of glasses is all you need, but that’s not always the case. For different activities, such as outdoor sports, working on a computer, or playing golf, specialized glasses may be needed to enhance performance or reduce strain. Additionally, sun protection is vital, so having a second pair with UV protection is a smart investment.
5. All Eyeglass Lenses Are Not Created Equal
Just like any other product, eyeglass lenses vary in quality. There are more than 200 different lens designs, each with unique optics tailored to different prescriptions. Many optical shops offer bulk lenses that may not provide the best vision for your specific needs. It’s important to seek out high-quality lenses from an optometrist who can guide you toward the best choice for your visual requirements.
6. Some Vision Issues Have No Early Warning Signs
Certain eye conditions, like glaucoma, often show no symptoms until permanent vision damage has occurred. These conditions can be detected early during a routine eye examination, which is why annual checkups are essential. Regular eye exams can prevent severe vision loss and help maintain healthy vision throughout your life.
Your Vision Health Matters
Understanding these key facts about vision can help you take proactive steps to ensure your family’s eye health. Whether you need routine care or specialized Vision Therapy, Dr. Rick Graebe FCOVD and the team at Neuro-Visual Performance Institute are here to help.
To schedule an eye exam or learn more about Vision Therapy at our Versailles or Somerset locations, call us today at 859-879-0089. We proudly serve the greater Lexington area, Central, and Southern Kentucky.
Credit:
This blog is based on information from Dr. Rick Graebe as compiled and written by John Lynch.