COLOURED OVERLAY ASSESSMENTS
WHAT IS VISUAL STRESS?
Visual stress refers to various kinds of discomfort and distortions people experience while trying to read and/or write. As well as making reading or writing more difficult, visual stress can lead to fatigue, headaches, lack of concentration and light sensitivity. People experience visual stress in different ways and for different reasons, so if you are experiencing distortions that make reading or writing difficult it’s important to book an eye examination and discuss visual stress with your optometrist.
HOW MAY COLOUR HELP WITH VISUAL STRESS?
Coloured filters have been shown to be effective in helping with visual stress. Using colour to help with visual stress is not an exact science, however, studies show a significant improvement after using overlays or precisely tinted lenses. A variety of different colours and types of coatings can be tested to find which ones are most helpful in reducing visual stress.
WHAT HAPPENS IN AN OVERLAY ASSESSMENT?
An overlay assessment follows a complete eye examination and is designed to ascertain whether overlaid colours could help reduce visual stress. Colours have different effects for different people at varying distances, so carefully testing using a selection of overlays is essential to find out which colour may be best suited for you. Using various coloured lenses and a series of specific questions your optometrist will be able to accurately determine whether some form of coloured overlays could help reduce your visual stress.