What Is a Functional Vision Evaluation and Why Might You Need One?

When most people think about an eye exam, they imagine reading letters on a chart to check how clearly they can see. While measuring visual acuity is important, it’s only one part of how your eyes work. A functional vision evaluation goes much deeper - it assesses how well your entire visual system works together to support daily life.

What Is a Functional Vision Evaluation?

A functional vision evaluation is a comprehensive assessment designed to measure the efficiency and coordination of your visual skills beyond basic eyesight. During this evaluation, your optometrist looks at how your eyes:

• Work together (binocular vision)

• Focus on objects at different distances (accommodation)

• Move across a page or environment (tracking and eye movement control)

• Process information (visual perception and integration)

This type of evaluation is often more extensive than a routine eye exam and is tailored to uncover issues that may not show up with standard vision testing.

Why Might You Need One?

Functional vision problems can impact many areas of life. Even if you see clearly with glasses or contact lenses, your eyes may struggle with efficiency, leading to symptoms such as:

• Headaches or eye strain after reading or computer use

• Difficulty focusing or staying on task

• Skipping lines or losing your place when reading

• Poor depth perception or clumsiness

• Trouble with reading comprehension or slow reading speed

• Struggles with sports performance or hand-eye coordination

Children, in particular, may benefit from a functional vision evaluation if they are experiencing learning difficulties, avoiding reading, or showing signs of attention struggles. Adults who have suffered concussions, brain injuries, or ongoing visual discomfort may also be candidates.

What Happens After the Evaluation?

If the evaluation reveals functional vision problems, Dr. Newman may recommend vision therapy - a personalized program of activities and exercises designed to strengthen visual skills. Vision therapy can help improve reading ability, concentration, and overall comfort with daily tasks.

Take the Next Step with Dr. Newman Optometry

A functional vision evaluation goes beyond checking clarity - it identifies how well your eyes and brain work together to support learning, reading, and everyday activities. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms that affect performance at school, work, or sports, this type of assessment may uncover the missing piece.

Contact Dr. Newman Optometry to schedule a functional vision evaluation and take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable, and more efficient vision. Visit our office in Beverly Hills, California, or call (323) 653-4078 to book an appointment today.