Colorimetry & Visual Stress

Smiling child with glasses lying among colorful books and notebooks

Some people, including children, can experience what is known as visual stress when reading. This may cause text to appear blurry, move on the page, or create a sense of discomfort. These difficulties can make reading more tiring and reduce concentration over time. While experiences vary from person to person, visual stress can sometimes interfere with reading fluency and comfort.

What is Colorimetry?

Children often don’t realise they have vision problems, and symptoms can be subtle. Regular eye exams help spot issues like squints, lazy eye (amblyopia), or focusing difficulties before they affect school performance and daily life.

Child with glasses covering one eye during eye exam or vision test
Young child with parent looking at glasses in optometry office

How can we help

We can work together to find the best solution for our patients. Once the most helpful colours are identified, they may be applied in different ways. Some options include:

  • Coloured overlays – Transparent sheets placed over text that may make words easier to process.
  • Tinted glasses or lenses – Prescription or non-prescription eyewear that incorporates the chosen tint.

These tools do not work the same way for everyone, but some people report that they may reduce discomfort and make it easier to sustain reading.

Book your next appointment today