(Ed. Note: Names have been changed and details disguised in this story to protect the privacy of the adopted children.)
Raising children with special needs presents unique challenges for parents. For Sally and Ken Tappan, who have adopted five children from foster care, each child’s complex needs require a multifaceted approach. One solution that has made a profound difference in their lives is Vision Therapy, offered by Dr. Rick Graebe FCOVD at the Neuro-Visual Performance Institute in Versailles, Kentucky.
Understanding Vision Therapy
Vision Therapy is a specialized program that focuses on improving how the eyes, brain, and body work together. It is not just about having 20/20 vision, but enhancing the brain’s ability to process visual information effectively, leading to better learning, balance, and overall quality of life. For children with developmental challenges or conditions like ADHD, autism, or learning difficulties, Vision Therapy can unlock hidden potential by addressing issues with eye coordination, tracking, and focusing.
The Tappan Family’s Journey with Vision Therapy
Three of the Tappan’s children, ranging from ages 5 to 11, have experienced life-changing results through Vision Therapy. Their youngest, Grace, who suffers from amblyopia (lazy eye) and Duane’s Syndrome, struggled with her vision and coordination. These conditions limited her peripheral vision and caused frequent falls. After several months of therapy, Grace’s vision improved to the point where her lazy eye became less noticeable. Even more remarkable, her balance improved, reducing the number of falls she experienced daily. This boost in physical confidence has transformed her ability to engage in everyday activities.
Chris, the Tappans’ middle child, had difficulties with reading due to ADHD. His ability to track letters on a page improved significantly after Vision Therapy, enhancing his reading skills and focus. Brenda, the oldest, had low-average IQ scores and struggled with comprehension. After undergoing Vision Therapy, her reading comprehension soared, allowing her to achieve A’s and B’s in an academically rigorous private school.
These improvements have not only lifted a weight off the Tappans but have also provided a sense of hope for the future, particularly for Brenda, who now has the opportunity to pursue college education through foster care scholarships.
Why Vision Therapy Works for Special Needs Children
The success of Vision Therapy lies in its personalized approach. Each therapy plan is tailored to the unique needs of the child, ensuring that the therapy addresses specific vision-related challenges that interfere with learning and daily functioning. In children with ADHD or other neurological conditions, poor visual skills can exacerbate behavioral issues, making learning more difficult. Through a combination of exercises and visual tasks, Vision Therapy helps retrain the brain to better interpret visual information, allowing children to overcome obstacles that may have seemed insurmountable.
Moreover, Vision Therapy is covered by foster care medical cards, making it an accessible option for adoptive parents who want to provide their children with the best possible care.
A Brighter Future Through Vision Therapy
Thanks to Vision Therapy, the Tappan family has seen remarkable improvements in their children’s abilities, from better academic performance to improved physical coordination. The therapy has opened doors that were previously closed due to vision limitations, giving the children a chance to succeed in school and beyond.
For parents of special needs children in Versailles, Lexington, or Southern Kentucky, Vision Therapy offers a hopeful solution that can transform your child’s life. Dr. Rick Graebe FCOVD is one of the few specialists offering this comprehensive approach to vision care, and his expertise has helped countless children achieve their full potential.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you believe your child could benefit from Vision Therapy, don’t wait. Call us today at 859-879-0089 to schedule an appointment at our Versailles or Somerset locations. We proudly serve the greater Lexington area and communities throughout Central and Southern Kentucky.
Credit:
This blog is based on information from Dr. Rick Graebe as compiled and written by John Lynch.