Irlen lenses & adults a small scale study of reading speed, accuracy, comprehension & self‐image

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of using Irlen coloured filters on reading speed, accuracy, comprehension and self‐image over 6 months of use. Three study groups were used (immediate lens use, delayed lens use and control), involving 33 subjects ranging in age from 18 years to 62 years. The experimental groups demonstrated significant improvements in reading accuracy and comprehension over the 6 months of the study, although there was a plateau effect for the second half of the 6 month study period. The experimental and control groups also improved significantly on scores of self‐esteem over the 6 months. It is suggested that the reported reduction in print and background distortions may allow attention to be directed to the processing of continuous text rather than to the identification of individual words, although improvement will be restricted if basic word attack skills ore not fully mastered.