People with autism may have sight loss which is going undetected as health and social care practitioners misdiagnose the symptoms, according to RNIB Scotland research.
A systematic review of research evidence, published in the 'Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders' found there are similar behavioural features between autism and severe visual impairment in childhood.
These included difficulties with spatial awareness, light and contrast sensitivity and facial recognition. Other features included delay in the development of symbolic play, and repetitive mannerisms such as rocking, eye-poking and rubbing.
‘Undiagnosed sight loss can have a serious impact on a person's quality of life,’ said Anne McMillan, adult social care operations and development manager at RNIB. ‘RNIB's Complex Needs Services have been raising awareness of 'hidden' sight loss, among groups who might not be able to communicate problems as easily as others, for a number of years. When a person with complex needs has problems with communication their primary diagnosis may overshadow difficulties with their sight.’
As part of the Scottish Government's Strategy for Autism, RNIB Scotland, Scottish Autism and Edinburgh Napier University have investigated ways of improving vision awareness and support through an education programme delivered to staff at Scottish Autism.