Vision Goals

Today we had a home visit from Lara (the Occupational Therapist with CNIB) and we went through the vision goals for Taylor...

Objective #1 - Optimize Taylor's use of vision

• Goal #1: Increase length of fixation and tracking. Aoid moving the object initially. Show it to her from 1 or 2 feet. Minimize distractions when possible. Present items within 30 degrees from midline at eye level on right and left or above eye level to eyebrow on both sides. Below eye level is difficult to get her attention, central is best. When working on tracking move the object slowly to allow her to re-fixate if she has not been able to maintain her gaze. Practice horizontal and vertical tracking at this stage.
• Goal #2: Taylor will reach, grasp and release items that she locates by sight or sound. Use concepts above to make the target as easy for her to see as possible. Couple with a sound cue if necessary. Use hand under hand to facilitate reach and grasp without illiciting tactile defensiveness. Use simple word t help her anticipate what is going to touch her.
• Goal #3: Accomodate for light sensitivity. Discussed use of wrap around sunglasses for infants and hat to allow her to open her eyes outdoors. Pulling blinds indoors, using a screen on car window, wearing a brimmed hat will help protect her eyes.

Objective #2 - Taylor's development will not be delayed by her vision loss

• Goal #1: Taylor will be comfortable exploring different textures with her hands. Use diffeent textures on her play gym. Participate in water play. Use gel bags. Facilitate with hand under hand to avoid defensiveness.
• Goal #2: Putting one or both hands on the bottle while drinking and working towards her holding the bottle on her own. Make bottle easy to see and easier to grip. Add tactile feature if required to enage her.
• Goal #3: Develop head control, sit with support of hands, shaking and patting objects with hands, holding an object with voluntary grasp, banging an object on a hard surface. Use visual/auditory and tactile targets to encourage her to position her head, move towards the objects, and use engaging objects that will encourage her to bang and swipe (eg. metal measuring cups to bang together). Face paint on caregiver to help her maintain her head upright.
• Goal #4: Taylor will imitate simple gestures such as waving and vocalize to have her needs met. Use cause and effect toys that activate with noise. Reinforce reaction to own name. Use hand under hand for "bye-bye".