The Visual Brain and Peripheral Reading and Writing Disorders

The Visual Brain and Peripheral Reading and Writing Disorders: A Guide to Visual System Dysfunction for Speech-Language Pathologists familiarizes the reader with the complex workings of the human visual system, the motor and sensory components of normal vision as they relate to the recognition of letters and words, and to the acquisition and rehabilitation of reading and writing. This text brings together findings from the neuropsychological, neurooptometric, neurolinguistic, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology literature on acquired visual system impairment from the past 20+ years, and the ways visual system dysfunction impacts reading, writing, and cognition. Chapters Include: - Review of structural elements of the eye, the cortical and subcortical structures of the visual brain, and the motor and sensory components of normal vision - The distinct functions of the three primary visual pathways (central, peripheral and retinotectal) and how they relate to reading and writing - Review of five formal tests of reading and writing that are designed or may be adapted to assess peripheral reading and writing disorders - And much more! A few of the features inside: - Figures illustrating the various components of the visual brain that are engaged when we read and write - Information on visual system deficits in left hemisphere lesions with and without aphasia - Detailed descriptions of peripheral reading disorders and associated error patterns - Diagnostic criteria for three different types of neglect (viewer-centered, stimulus-centered, object-centered) - Description of treatment materials and methods suited to clients with acquired dyslexia due to visual system dysfunction The Visual Brain and Peripheral Reading and Writing Disorders explains the heterogenous nature of peripheral reading and writing disorders, describes the association between visual motor and sensory dysfunction and the acquired dyslexias, and provides the speech-language pathologist with specific guidelines regarding the assessment and treatment of reading and writing disorders associated with visual system dysfunction.

Heidi McMartin Heeringa, MS, CCC-SLP is a speech-language pathologist with 36 years experience working with adult clients with dysphagia, aphasia, apraxia, and cognitive-communicative dysfunction in the rehabilitation setting. Acquired reading disorders and the relationship between visual system dysfunction and cognitive-communicative function are areas of special interest and expertise. The author holds a bachelor's degree in linguistics and master of science in speech-language pathology from the University of Michigan. Other publications by this author include A Manual for the Treatment of Reading and Writing Disorders (2002) and the Assessment of Language-Related Functional Activities (Baines, Martin, & McMartin Heeringa, 1999).

Dedication About the Author Introduction Chapter 1 Anatomy of the Eye and Visual Brain Chapter 2 Impact of Visual System Dysfunction on Language and Cognitio Chapter 3 Assessment and Treatment of Acquired Peripheral Reading and Writing Disorders Glossary Appendix A Test Instruments for the Assessment of Peripheral Reading and Writing Disorders Appendix B Criteria for Viewer-Centered, Stimulus-Centered and Object-Centered Neglect Appendix C Suggested Apps and Online Exercises for the Treatment of Acquired Reading and Writing Disorders Appendix D Keyboarding Exercise: Combining Motor Function with a Visual Language Exercise Appendix E Visual System Dysfunction in Progressive Neurological DisordersTest Bank Answer Key Index