Autistic people face significant barriers when accessing eye care, according to new research from Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia).
The multi-stage study, conducted by Aspect’s Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP) in partnership with international collaborators, explored the experiences of autistic adults, parents of autistic children, as well as eye care professionals (ECPs).
In response to findings from the research, guidelines have been produced to help ECPs adapt their environment and consultations to the needs of the one in 40 Australians that Aspect estimates to be on the autism spectrum.
Multi-Stage Research Covers Patients and ECPs
The findings highlight how everyday aspects of eye care, from sensory sensitivities to communication styles, can profoundly shape an autistic person’s experience in the clinic.
Dr Chris Edwards, Research Fellow, ARCAP said eye health is essential for everyone, but for autistic people, the experience of accessing care can often be overwhelming.
“From bright lights and noisy waiting rooms to unclear communication or rushed appointments, these barriers can make it difficult for autistic people to get the support they need,” said Dr Edwards. “Small, thoughtful changes can make an enormous difference.”
Survey Responses
The first study surveyed 127 autistic adults and 69 parents of autistic children. Participants described a range of barriers to accessible eye care, including:
- Sensory discomfort during eye exams including sensitivities to light, sound, and touch,
- Anxiety or stress in unfamiliar environments,
- Unclear instructions and limited understanding about autism from practitioners,
- Feeling rushed or pressured to make decisions, such as when choosing frames, and
- Financial costs and limited flexibility in scheduling.
Parents of autistic children reported similar challenges, particularly around communication, sensory distress, and the use of eye drops or unfamiliar equipment.
When asked what would make eye care more accessible, participants consistently called for:
- Eye care staff with greater understanding of autism.
- Calm, reassuring environments.
- Clear, plain-language communication.
- Visual supports and information provided before appointments.
- Flexible scheduling and the ability to take breaks.
Inga Klotz,* an autistic adult, said understanding and communication can make all the difference. “It really depends on how well they interact with you,” said Ms Klotz. “Clear communication that shows real understanding of my sensory experiences and needs, along with patience and awareness, can transform the appointment for me.”
Clear communication that shows real understanding of my sensory experiences and needs, along with patience and awareness, can transform the appointment for me
Responses From Eye Care Professionals
The second part of the research surveyed 198 eye care professionals internationally, revealing that while most practitioners are motivated to provide good care, few have received formal training on autism.
Of the ECPs surveyed, 61% had a personal or professional connection to autism yet, only 14% had completed formal autism training. While their confidence levels were generally moderate to high, many expressed a need for more guidance and practical resources.
Dr Paul Constable, an Adelaide-based optometrist, said giving time and listening well may be the most valuable tools to supporting people on the autism spectrum. “Every patient is different, and I adapt my technique depending on their needs,” said Dr Constable. “For autistic patients, that might mean allowing extra time for the appointment, explaining each step carefully before starting, and being flexible with how we conduct tests. Also engaging with the parent as they are the best person to explain how best to communicate with their child.”
Making Change Possible
Through analysis of more than 600 participant comments, Aspect researchers identified three key themes:
- It all comes down to how they interact with you: The quality of communication and interpersonal interactions strongly shaped whether experiences were positive or distressing.
- The experience is too much: Many autistic people described the sensory and emotional overwhelm of standard clinical settings, many of which are based in busy shopping centres.
- Financial barriers put care out of reach: The cost of specialist appointments and prescription glasses was a major obstacle for many autistic adults.
Guide to Accessible Care Now Available
To support change, Aspect has published a new professional guide, accessible eye care for autistic people, which provides practical strategies for creating inclusive environments and communication approaches tailored to individual needs. The guide draws directly on voices of autistic people, families, and clinicians while offering actionable steps for each stage of the appointment process, from pre-visit communication to clinical examination and follow-up.
Dr Chris Edwards added, “Our goal is to bridge understanding between autistic people and healthcare providers. When professionals understand how to adapt the environment and communication style, they can deliver care that feels safe, respectful, and effective for everyone.”
Access the full guide or learn more about Aspect’s autism and eye care research here. (link to visit www.aspect.org.au/our-research/latest-research/eye-care]
* Name changed for anonymity.
