Neurodiversity Celebration Week: making eye care more comfortable for neurodivergent patients

by Katie Quirk - Communications Coordinator, Optometry Australia with Courtenay Lind and Dr Shelley Hopkins

Going to the optometrist can be stressful—especially if you're neurodivergent.

Bright lights, unfamiliar tests and new environments can feel overwhelming.

To acknowledge Neurodiversity Celebration Week (17th to 23rd March), we have put together a series of stories to highlight and champion optometrists, academics, parents and patients across the country who are working to make eye care more accessible, affirming and inclusive for autistic* and other neurodivergent Australians.

Courtenay Lind, optometrist and Clinic Coordinator – Optometry, QUT Health Clinics and Dr Shelley Hopkins, optometrist and Senior Lecturer, Optometry and Vision Science, School of Clinical Sciences, QUT, explain why neuroaffirming eye care is so important and how neurodivergent people can better advocate for themselves in the lead up and during eye exams.

What is neuroaffirming eye care?

Neuroaffirming care is about accepting and accommodating neurodivergent people—those who are autistic, are ADHD or have other neurological differences—without judgement.

It means optometrists making small adjustments to help you feel more comfortable and in control during your visit. This could be things like dimming the lights, using clear and simple language or giving you extra time to process information and respond.

Why neurodivergent people may avoid the optometrist

Many neurodivergent people find it hard to access healthcare that meets their needs.

Sensory sensitivities can make certain parts of an eye exam— like bright lights or physical touch —really stressful. For kids, just being in a new place can cause a lot of anxiety. Without the right support, many people end up avoiding eye care altogether.

That’s why it’s so important for optometrists to offer a more flexible approach.

Simple changes, like allowing breaks or explaining each step of the exam clearly, can make a huge difference. Sending out information ahead of time about what to expect can also be helpful in reducing anxiety for both you and your family.

Simple ways to advocate for your needs

You shouldn’t have to dread eye appointments. Here are a few ways optometrists can create a more comfortable experience:

  1. Opt for more sensory-friendly appointments – look for optometrists who offer appointment times with dimmed lights, less noise and longer slots so you don’t feel rushed.
  2. Ask for things to be explained simply – no optometry jargon; just clear, straightforward information about what’s happening and why.
  3. Request information to be sent in advance – even a quick rundown of what to expect can help ease pre-appointment nerves.
  4. Be gentle and patient with yourself – ask for breaks if you’re feeling overwhelmed or skip tests that feel too much.
  5. Bring comfort items along – pack some headphones, fidget toys or anything that helps you feel more at ease.

Optometrists may advertise as neurodivergent aware and can apply adaptive processes when requested. You can request assistance for yourself or your family by advising your optometrist of your specific needs and level of intervention before your appointment to ensure the necessary support is provided. Working with your optometrist in this way can help to create a more accessible experience.

A final thought

Taking care of your eyes shouldn’t have to feel overwhelming. By embracing neuroaffirming practices, optometrists can help make eye care more accessible, comfortable and inclusive for neurodivergent Australians. Remember, it’s okay to advocate for what you need during an appointment—your comfort matters just as much as your vision.

*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.

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