Speaker: Dr. Dean T. Still (OD, COVD, Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, Retired Professor of Bariatric Optometry)
Host: Kapil Gautam Singh
Audience queries can be dropped in the chat box for discussion in the next session.
Key Concepts
Vision as the Leader: Vision is crucial in all human activities; it guides and leads development and behavior.
Eyes and Brain Integration: Eyes are an extension of the brain - activity in one reflects activity in the other.
Vision Development: Vision instigates action and overall development from crawling to complex tasks like driving.
Just Look Retinoscopy: Observing the patterns of visual engagement during tasks to assess development.
Importance of Observation: Observing without lenses initially; lenses are used as probes to see reflex changes.
Vision and Reflexes
Visual Manipulation: Engaging in a task involves focusing, refocusing, and visual manipulation.
Retinoscopic Reflexes: Changes in the reflex can indicate different levels of engagement and brain activity.
Developmental Observation: Observations are valid for all ages and help determine visual engagement and manipulation patterns.
Video Demonstrations
Infant's Eye-Hand Coordination: Visual hunger in infants and their use of eyes before hands for exploration and engagement.
Gaze Following: Following someone's gaze can predict cognitive abilities and understanding in infants.
Eye and Ear Coordination: Eye movements are coordinated with eardrum movements, signifying interconnected sensory systems.
Retinoscopy Observations
Procedure: Shine retinoscope light into the patient’s eyes, use lenses to observe changes in reflex brightness and stability.
Complexity: Simple procedure with complex observations; more experience leads to deeper understanding.
Observational Details: Look for alignment, focus, changes in brightness, and modulations in reflex.
Pupil Size: Changes in pupil size can indicate effort and focus levels.
Developmental Considerations
Early Interventions: Observing early and intervening can set strong foundations for visual development.
Infancy Program: Early visual assessments (6-12 months) help in setting developmental foundations.
Role of Vision in Learning: Vision plays a critical role in cognitive tasks and overall development.
Challenges: Children with foundational issues may face greater challenges and require more effort to engage.
Clinical Applications
Assessment of Eye Movements: Observe eye movements during various tasks to determine visual engagement and control.
Impact of Digital Devices: Extended use of digital devices can affect pupil size and focusing ability.
Management Strategies: Use retinoscopy for developmental insights, not just refraction. May need vision therapy or other interventions based on observations.
Follow-Up: Frequent monitoring and adjustments to lens prescriptions are crucial for optimal development.
Conclusion
Continual Learning: Practitioners should continuously observe and adapt their understanding of visual engagement and development.
Mental Video: The continuous observation over several seconds creates a mental video of reflex changes aiding in better diagnosis and treatment.
Future Sessions: Future webinars will include topics such as autism and visual strategies.
Contact Information
Email: Provided for follow-up questions and further insights.
Final Thoughts
Celebration Wishes: Wished audience well for upcoming celebrations.
Passion for Sharing: Dr. Still emphasizes the importance of ongoing education and sharing knowledge.