LCA and Education
How smart are patients with LCA? According to one study, they’re definitely above the US national average. Printed in the research journal Ophthalmology in March 2006 (Vol 113, No 3), Dr. Apushkin and Dr. Fishman’s study looks at the education levels of fifty-five patients with LCA. All are legally blind and most attended college.
The researchers chose fifty-five LCA patients older than 17 and with a visual acuity of 20/200 or worse. They asked each patient a range of questions and gathered information about their age, gender, race, level of education, visual function, and quality of life (poor, good, very good, or excellent).
Here’s a break down of the results: of 55 patients with LCA (24 men and 31 women):
- Highschool Graduates: 54
- College Graduates: 36
- Gradschool Graduates: 15 (with 3 currently enrolled in programs)
Further, 17 rated their quality of life as excellent, 20 as very good, and 18 as good.
According to these findings, 98% of patients with LCA complete high school, 65% attain a Bachelor’s degree, and 27% continue their education beyond a Bachelor’s degree. Of the general US population, 80% complete a High School education and 24% a Bachelor’s degree or higher. (Source US Census Bureau, Census 2000, www.census.gov.)
Related Posts
Tactile Arts and Crafts, Visual Impairment
Using Origami to Teach Blind and Low-Vision Students Basic Shapes
If, like me, you have wondered why it is important for young students to learn about shapes, here are just a few reasons. Teaching shapes in early education provides children...
Toys, Visual Impairment
Barbie® Introduces the First Blind Barbie Fashionista Doll
Mattel, in partnership with AFB, announced the addition of a blind Barbie doll with white cane and sunglasses.
Eye Conditions and Syndromes
Does Screen Time Affect Kids’ Vision?
Too much screen time can affect kids’ vision by causing eye strain, blurred vision, dry eyes, and even nearsightedness in children and adolescents.