When was your last eye exam? Dr. Rick Graebe, an optometrist and advocate of Vision Therapy based in Versailles, Kentucky, wants you to consider whether it truly tested your vision.
In today’s technology-driven world, where most of our time is spent in front of screens, the traditional eye exam might not be enough. The Snellen chart, which has been used for over a century, tests only a small portion of your visual system. And while it’s great for detecting issues like macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma, it’s designed for an era when clear distance vision was crucial — for farmers, hunters, and soldiers. But what about today’s workers and students, who spend most of their day looking at screens up close?
Modern Vision Needs Modern Testing
The eye exam most of us know is based on technology developed in the 19th century. While it’s excellent for identifying structural eye issues, it doesn’t address how our eyes process information in the modern world. Dr. Graebe compares the eyes to a computer: just like a computer needs both hardware and software to function, your eyes need more than just clear vision to work properly.
Today, 75% of school and work tasks are performed up close. Yet, less than 25% of eye doctors include near-point testing — essential for detecting issues that impact close-range tasks like reading or working on a computer. This can lead to undiagnosed vision problems that could affect performance in school and at work.
“We test for buffalo hunters and farmers, and expect computer operators and readers,” Dr. Graebe says. It’s a mismatch between what we test and what our modern lifestyle demands from our vision.
Vision Therapy: A Solution for Today’s Visual Demands
At Dr. Graebe’s clinic, the standard eye exam goes beyond just reading letters on a chart. He focuses on how the eyes work as a team and how efficiently they process information. This is crucial for children who struggle in school, as undetected vision issues could be at the root of reading difficulties or poor academic performance.
Vision Therapy addresses these problems. It involves a customized program designed to improve how well the eyes and brain work together. Over a 10-15 week period, patients engage in activities that train their visual system. The therapy includes fun exercises like puzzles, ball games, and more, all designed to enhance the connection between the eyes, brain, and body.
Children who go through this therapy typically experience significant improvements. Dr. Graebe notes that on average, students improve their visual skills by over three years in just a few months. These gains translate into better school performance and greater confidence in their everyday activities.
Real-Life Success Stories
The walls of Dr. Graebe’s office are filled with testimonials from parents and children who have seen their lives change because of Vision Therapy. One recent patient from Somerset, Kentucky, was a bright student struggling to keep up with reading assignments. After completing Vision Therapy, his reading skills improved dramatically, and his confidence in the classroom soared.
Dr. Graebe’s dedication to his patients extends beyond the exam room. “The most rewarding part of my job,” he says, “is hearing from families years after therapy is completed, reminding me of how much their child was struggling and how our program changed their life.”
Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam Today
If you or your child is experiencing vision-related difficulties, now is the time to explore Vision Therapy. At Neuro-Visual Performance Institute, Dr. Rick Graebe, a developmental optometrist with over 35 years of experience, offers specialized eye care that goes beyond the basics.
With locations in Versailles serving the greater Lexington area and Somerset, we are one of the few pediatric specialty practices serving Central and Southern Kentucky. Don’t let outdated eye exams hold you back — call us today at 859-879-0089 to schedule your appointment and learn how Vision Therapy can improve your quality of life.
Credit:
This blog is based on information from Dr. Rick Graebe as compiled and written by John Lynch.