Hi,
It’s the glare from the light that’s the problem, however changing the windows is not the answer. There are specific glasses made for people with dyslexia, Erlen lenses, which mostly resolves this issue, used a lot in schools to prevent glare or the black/white board. Also, adjust the computer screen to a lower brightness, the newer screen have anti-flicker technology inbuilt, if it's an older screen, a separate overlay anti-glare screen can be used. These are easily available.
Dyslexic people have issues with short term memory anyway, it was explained to me that it simply takes longer for things to move from their short term to long term memory, one in long term memory, there's no problems. This is absolutely a trait of dyslexia so it's perfectly reasonable that if you are distracted (by glare) or anything, it will affect your short term memory- like all of us. Dyslexic people usually have developed coping skills in childhood to help with short term memory problems, strict diary, to-do lists, reminders on phone, quick voice recording onto their phone ( anything that doesn’t involve writing is usually best though each person with dyslexia has their own strengths/weaknesses.
I think it would be reasonable in this case to implement some of the strategies above, perhaps reduce workload slightly if they are taking on a strategy that they haven't used before and review in a couple of weeks. I don’t think it’s a fair suggestion on the employer to go to the expense of changing windows that will affect all employees when changes to the individual employee may well resolve the issue.
Regards,
Vivienne
Vivienne Mulligan, RGN, MBS(SHWW), Grad IOSH, OHNAI
Occupational Health and Safety Nurse Specialist
-----Original Message-----
From: [log in to unmask] [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Adel Dickinson [Huddersfield]
Sent: 21 February 2018 11:48
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [OCC-HEALTH] Dyslexia
Good Afternoon
Has anyone any recommendations / advice on the OH management of such a request?
A staff member has dyslexia and suffers from minor memory loss. They have been to see OH historically about both issues.
They have now approached their Manager to ask if the windows could be frosted as they find them a distraction due to the condition as they struggle to concentrate. This is both the windows to the outside and also a window within the office door (to allow students/colleagues to see if member of staff is present).
I have been asked if this would be a reasonable adjustment given the condition. I am aware it is a management decision in terms of what they deem to be reasonable. However, I would like to go back with some advise if possible. Would having clear windows be something that would be an issue for some one with dyslexia / minor memory loss? How would frosted windows be beneficial? Has anyone else had any experience of dealing with such a case / query? Keen to see what your thoughts are.
Thanks in advance.
Adel
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