For neurodivergent families, accessing healthcare can be a complex journey filled with sensory and communication challenges.
Amanda, a neurodivergent parent of four neurodivergent children, knows this firsthand.
With two of her children requiring ongoing eye care— one who is autistic with ADHD, dyspraxia (a neurological disorder that affects the planning and processing of motor tasks), amblyopia and strabismus—Amanda has experienced both the difficulties and successes of navigating optometry and ophthalmology services.
Her insights highlight how simple adjustments in communication and sensory awareness can significantly improve the experience for neurodivergent patients.
The challenges: sensory overload, communication gaps & accessibility issues
One of the most significant barriers Amanda and her children have faced is the lack of sensory-friendly practices in many optometry settings.
Bright lights, loud retail environments and overwhelming noise levels make it difficult for her children to concentrate during exams.
“The repetitive nature of vision tests also became an issue,” Amanda explains.
“Standard visuals like dogs and clocks were so familiar that my daughter second-guessed her responses, making results less accurate. More variety in test visuals would help neurodivergent patients stay engaged.”
Another major challenge was unclear communication. Optometrists often rushed through explanations, leaving Amanda and her children confused about what to expect.
“My children frequently second-guessed themselves during exams. If they had known why the tests were happening and what they were supposed to see, they would have been more confident in their responses.”
The frame selection process was another major hurdle, especially for her 11-year-old, whose prescription required specific lenses.
“We tried on over 100 pairs in a busy store—it was overwhelming. While one optometrist took extra time to help, the process needs to be more efficient and less stressful.”
The fast pace of traditional eye exams, combined with the close proximity required for certain tests, also contributed to anxiety.
“Brief pauses between tests would have helped my children regain composure and feel more in control.”
What works: empathy, inclusion & personalised care
Despite these challenges, Amanda has had positive experiences where optometrists took the time to include her children in their own care.
“Those who explained each step and treated my children as active participants significantly reduced their anxiety,” she says.
One standout experience involved an optometrist who spent over an hour helping them select frames, despite a busy store environment.
“Their patience and personalised service made a stressful task manageable.”
The Ophthalmology team at the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) also made adjustments to accommodate her daughter’s needs, making visits less daunting.
“Brief pauses between tests would have helped my children regain composure and feel more in control.”
How optometrists can improve accessibility
Amanda believes that small changes can make a big difference in making optometry more inclusive for neurodivergent patients. Some key improvements include:
- Sensory-friendly environments: Offering quiet rooms in retail stores, reducing harsh lighting and providing sensory tools like stress balls or fidgets can help ease anxiety.
- Clearer communication: Explaining why tests are done, what to expect and checking in with patients at each step can reduce uncertainty and stress.
- Technology integration for frame selection: A system where patients scan one frame to receive online recommendations for similar styles could eliminate the need to try on dozens of options.
- Flexible scheduling: Offering late-night appointments for quieter sessions could benefit not just neurodivergent patients but anyone seeking a low-stimulation environment.
- More engaging vision tests: Varying the test visuals and incorporating interactive elements can help keep frequent patients focused and improve accuracy.
- Multiple formats for patient information: Providing explanations via podcasts, TikTok videos, written guides or QR codes would allow patients to process details in their preferred way.
A call for thoughtful change
Amanda’s experience highlights that improving neurodivergent accessibility in optometry doesn’t require a massive overhaul—just small, thoughtful changes.
Sensory-friendly environments, better communication, and a little extra patience can transform a stressful appointment into a positive experience.
“Education is key,” Amanda says.
“When patients and families understand why tests are done and what to expect, the path to better eye health becomes clearer.”
By making these adjustments, optometrists can create a more inclusive and supportive experience—not just for neurodivergent patients, but for everyone.
*Amplifying autistic voices is crucial because it ensures that conversations about neurodivergence are led by those with lived experience.
Too often, discussions about autism are dominated by non-Autistic perspectives, which can overlook or misunderstand the real needs and strengths of the community.
Listening to and elevating autistic voices not only helps break down stereotypes but also drives meaningful change in policies, practices and perceptions.
It’s about shifting from a “for them, without them” mindset to a collaborative, inclusive approach that respects neurodivergent experiences.
