A Survey of Visual Services Available to the Institutionalized Mentally Retarded

Investigators have found a higher incidence of refractive error and eye disease in the mentally retarded population, so a study was needed to determine the extent of vision services available to this population. A survey requesting information on frequency of eye examinations and vision screenings was mailed to administrators of Illinois State and private residential facilities for the mentally retarded. The results indicate that vision services in these institutions are inadequate.