A vision screening is designed to check eyesight, or sharpness of vision.
Sharpness of vision, or visual acuity, is recorded as a fraction, e.g., 20/20. This means that a person can read a line of type standing 20 feet (or six meters) from an eye chart.
A vision screening is done to separate those with and without possible vision problems. Vision screening results may indicate a potential need for further assessment. A vision screening is not a substitute for a complete eye and vision evaluation by an eye doctor.
Lions clubs often conduct free vision screenings for children and adults. Some Lions districts have their own mobile van for vision screenings. In other instances, clubs arrange with local hospitals or health departments for an eye care professional to perform the screenings. Lions who are eye care professionals may also perform vision screenings.
Children should have a vision screening at age three. Indicators of vision problems in children may include:
More information about eye health and various eye conditions can be found at the American Optometric Association and The Canadian Association of Optometrists or the professional association of optometrists or ophthalmologists in your area.
Learn more about InfantSEE, a USA public health program, which provides a comprehensive infant eye assessment within the first year of life as a no cost public health service.
Health and Children's Services
Lions Clubs International
300 W. 22nd Street
Oak Brook, Illinois 60523-8842 USA
E-mail: programs@lionsclubs.org
