Orthoptist Rayan is determined to improve access to vital eye care. Equipped with her mobile-testing kit, she assesses vision for people in the comfort of their everyday environment such as home or school.
Backed by many years of experience supporting children and adults living with vision impairment, she understands how practical strategies can enhance everyday activities like socialising, learning or moving safely in the community and provides tailored advice for individuals and their families.
The role of an Orthoptist
Orthoptists specialise in the assessment, diagnosis, and management of eye movement disorders and coordination, well as visual development and functionality related to how the eyes work together. They work with health professionals and educators and provide eye care services at school, home and in the community.
Orthoptists assess how how functional vision works in real life and how it can be maximised, firstly through a Functional Vision Assessment (FVA) which measures several factors such as contrast sensitivity, visual processing and perception, depth perception, colour vision and more.
“I don’t just measure visual acuity, I rather assess how a person uses their vision in real life. For example, at home, school, or work. This helps families, support workers, and educators implement practical strategies and environmental adaptations,” she says.
Functional Vision Assessments (FVAs)
A Functional Vision Assessment (FVA) assesses visual strengths and challenges to better understand the eye functionality during daily activities like reading, moving safely, playing, learning, and social interaction. The assessment not only evaluates what people see, but how they use what they can see to function in daily life, which helps to inform environmental adjustments.
“We create support systems that are tailor-made to ensure daily living is seamless and comfortable for those with mild, moderate or severe vision loss,” Rayan says.
Orthoptic care where it matters most
“Unlike many providers who only offer clinic-based services, I conduct assessments in the home which is ideal for people with mobility challenges, children who feel more comfortable in their own environment, and adults for whom travel to appointments is stressful or not feasible.
“All of our equipment has been carefully selected to be easily transported to the home. Reliable testing procedures have also been adapted to ensure reliable results are acquired.”
As well as eye testing in the home, Rayan helps people with impaired vision adjust or organise their homes so they are low-vision friendly.
“With client consent, I liaise with other professionals (e.g., teachers, support coordinators, therapists) to ensure recommendations are integrated into everyday support plans. I also provide detailed reports, assist with low vision aid trials, and support NDIS funding applications for assistive technology.”
Make an appointment or referral
If you or someone you know is experiencing visual challenges in daily life, Orthoptists can assist by assessing vision functionality and by providing practical strategies to enhance daily life.
Orthoptist Rayan can work around your schedule, limiting disruption to daily routines, work, or schooling. If you would like to know more or to make a referral, visit senseswa.com.au/orthoptics or call us 1300 111 881.
