Creating a Neurodiversity-Friendly Eye Care Experience

Providing quality eye care goes beyond clinical expertise. For neurodivergent patients, the environment, communication style and overall experience can play a significant role in how comfortable and successful an appointment is. By making small, practical adjustments, optometrists and practice teams can help ensure patients feel welcomed, understood and supported throughout their visit.

Make Communication Clear and Predictable

Many patients benefit from knowing what will happen before a test begins.

Simple strategies include

• Explaining each step before it happens.
• Demonstrating equipment before use.
• Using clear, direct language.
• Giving one instruction at a time.
• Allowing extra time for responses.

Create a Calmer Environment

Busy waiting rooms, unexpected noise and sensory distractions can make appointments more stressful for some patients. These adjustments can help create a more predictable and comfortable experience.

Practices can consider

• Offering quieter appointment slots.
• Reducing background noise where possible.
• Minimising unnecessary interruptions.
• Providing a quieter waiting area.
• Informing patients about delays or changes to schedules.

Build Flexibility into Appointments

Not every patient will engage with an eye test in the same way. Where clinically appropriate, flexibility may include short breaks, adjusting test order, scheduling longer appointments, offering follow-ups and/or incorporating caregiver support when appropriate. A review of healthcare procedures involving neurodivergent patients found that flexibility, environmental adaptations and caregiver involvement can improve engagement and participation.

Listen to the Patient

The most effective accommodation is often the simplest: asking what would help. Some patients may prefer detailed explanations, while others may want minimal information. Some may be sensitive to bright lights, while others may have different needs entirely. Taking the time to understand individual preferences can help build trust and create a more positive healthcare experience.

Supporting Better Access to Eye Care

Neurodiversity-friendly care is not about treating people differently. It is about recognising that patients have different needs and ensuring those needs are considered throughout the appointment. When eye care professionals prioritise communication, flexibility and patient comfort, they can help make routine eye care more accessible while encouraging long-term engagement with vision health.