Visual processing disorders, also known as visual perceptual disorders or VPD, are neurological conditions that affect how the brain interprets visual information. They can affect people of all ages, but most diagnoses occur in school-age children. For those affected by a visual processing disorder, it can be tough to make sense of the images and symbols they see. Here are some common types and symptoms of visual processing disorders.

Symptoms of Visual Processing Disorders

The most common symptom of visual processing disorders is difficulty interpreting visual information. This can manifest as problems with reading, writing, following written directions, noticing patterns, recognizing faces, paying attention, or focusing on tasks. One can also experience clumsiness and poor coordination when performing physical activities. Others may experience headaches or eye strain when focusing on visual tasks for extended periods of time.

How Are VPDs Diagnosed?

Optometrists often diagnose visual processing disorders as part of their routine examinations. Our optometrists typically use a comprehensive battery of tests to evaluate a patient’s peripheral vision, color vision accuracy, binocularity, and detection of specific stimuli during an exam. Tests involving puzzles may also be given depending on the subject's age or needs. These tests generally provide a more complete picture of possible impairments to visual processing ability.

Types of VPD

There are eight types of visual processing disorders, all of which have their own distinct symptoms. However, each one can be managed with help from your optometrist and their recommended techniques. Here’s a brief description of each type of visual processing disorder and how to address them.

1. Visual Processing Disorder

Those suffering from this disorder generally experience reduced visual discernment. Its symptoms include difficulty recognizing the differences between similar shapes, letters, and numbers. Common ways to reduce these symptoms include color-coding comparable items and adding extra spaces between words.

2. Visual Memory Disorder

Individuals may have difficulty recalling visual information if they’re diagnosed with this disorder. For example, they often struggle to recall what they saw on a page without reading it multiple times. It’s important to provide extra reading time for those affected by this condition.

3. Visual Sequential Memory Disorder

People experiencing this disorder may struggle to recall sequences or patterns of visual information presented in order. Sadly, difficulty remembering phone numbers, account numbers, or directions is common with this condition. Colored overlays are often used to reduce symptoms and improve a patient’s memory.

4. Visual-Spatial Organization Disorder

Those diagnosed with this disorder may struggle to visually organize and interpret their environment. For instance, they have problems reading a map or finding items on a cluttered desk. This disorder can make moving around in unfamiliar places difficult and even dangerous. When possible, color-code items and use simple visual layouts for easy navigation.

5. Visual Closure Disorder

This type of visual processing disorder can make it tough to recognize partially obscured objects. It often contributes to poor handwriting and impaired spatial recognition. It’s essential for those with this disorder to take their time with daily tasks and not assume an object’s identity at first glance.

6. Visual Figure-Ground Perception Disorder

This problem affects an individual's ability to distinguish between foreground and background objects. For instance, a patient may have difficulty analyzing charts or graphs due to the various elements in the illustration. Utilizing simplified visuals and a magnifying glass are two great ways to manage this disorder. 

7. Visual Motor Integration Disorder

Individuals suffering from this condition have difficulty coordinating their motor skills and visual perception. Since their hand movements line up separately from their sight, those affected will often find difficulty drawing, painting, writing, or playing certain sports. Dictation software can be incredibly beneficial in this regard. 

8. Ocular Motor Dysfunction

This disorder significantly affects ones ability to control their eye moments. For example, it often results in double vision, slow eye movements, and difficulty tracking moving objects. Luckily, audiobooks and text-to-speech software can reduce the impact of this disorder. 

Visit Your Optometrist

A visual processing disorder can severely reduce anyone’s quality of life if left unaddressed. Children may struggle with schoolwork, and adults may struggle to perform simple everyday tasks without aid or accommodation. Luckily, modern healthcare and digital technologies provide reasonable solutions to many symptoms of visual processing disorders. 

If you have any further questions about these disorders or how to treat them, then please contact our team today. Our optometrists are always eager to discuss your concerns and explore possible treatment options available to you.