Hard-of-Hearing Eye Exams in Burnaby
A hard-of-hearing eye exam is a full, comprehensive eye exam that has been adapted for patients who are deaf or hard of hearing. At our Burnaby clinic in Metrotown, that means clear face-to-face communication for lip reading, written instructions, visual aids, nonverbal cues, and extra time when needed so you can follow each step of the exam and ask questions in the way that works best for you.
Where to get an eye exam if I am hearing impaired?
At Real Eyes Optometry in Burnaby, we see a lot of patients who are deaf, hard of hearing, or living with other disabilities, and our job is to make eye care fit you, not the other way around. One of the core values of our practice is inclusivity, and we are committed to ensuring that every patient feels comfortable, understood, and well-cared for during their visit. Recently, we received a heartwarming review from a patient who is hard of hearing, and it inspired us to talk about individualised care and what it is like to get an eye exam with hearing impairments and other disabilities.
Why Inclusivity Matters when it comes to Eye Care in Burnaby
Eye exams are a vital part of maintaining overall health, but for individuals who are hard of hearing, the experience can sometimes feel overwhelming or isolating. Traditional eye exams often rely heavily on verbal communication, which can create barriers for those with hearing impairments. At Real Eyes Optometry, we recognise these challenges and have implemented thoughtful adjustments to ensure that our services are accessible to everyone.
How do we make eye exams accessible for hard-of-hearing patients in Burnaby?
Here are some of the ways we tailor our eye exams to meet the needs of patients who are hard of hearing:
- Clear and Patient Communication
Our staff, like Susan from the review, is trained to speak clearly and face patients directly to make lip-reading easier. We also ensure that our tone is patient and friendly, allowing individuals to feel at ease throughout their visit. - Visual Aids and Written Instructions
For patients who rely on visual cues, we use written instructions, diagrams, and even digital screens to explain procedures and results. This ensures that every step of the exam is transparent and easy to follow.
- Non-Verbal Communication
During the exam, Dr Pati and Dr. Amit uses numbers, hand signals, and other non-verbal cues to communicate effectively. For example, when testing vision, he uses numbered charts and gestures to indicate which line to read, eliminating the need for verbal back-and-forth. - Assistance With Directions and Logistics
We understand that navigating a new environment can be challenging for individuals who are hard of hearing. That’s why our team is always ready to assist with directions, whether it’s meeting patients at the entrance or guiding them through the mall to our office. We also have step-by-step videos on our website that show patients how to get to us. - Flexible Scheduling
We offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate patients who may need extra time or assistance during their visit. This ensures that no one feels rushed or stressed during their appointment.
We encourage you to do and ask for anything that you might need to have a comfortable and stress free experience with us. This would include reading up on what to expect at an eye exam if you have never had one before. We also provide a list of things you should bring with you to make sure your visit is smooth sailing.
Real Eyes Optometry
Real Eyes Optometry is centrally located in Metrotown Mall. Our convenient location includes free, accessible parking and the ability for parents to complete errands without driving all over the city.
Consider being able to run to a grocery store, make a clothing return, and grab a quick bite, all while your child is having an eye exam. Of course, accompanying your kid during their eye exam is always a good idea. For details on how to find us, click here.
Dr. Sahota has a special interest in dry eye care and advanced in clinic treatments, including radio frequency technology, and is known for providing thorough, personalized dry eye consultations in multiple languages.
Dr. Pati enjoys caring for patients of all ages, with a particular passion for family eye care and pediatric eye health, helping kids build strong visual habits early in life.
Dr. Wang is highly experienced in contact lens fitting, with a special focus on specialty lenses, and has helped many patients who thought they could never wear contacts comfortably.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice
Beyond Hearing Impairments: How do we accommodate other disabilities during an eye exam?
Inclusivity at Real Eyes Optometry extends beyond hearing impairments. We are committed to making our practice accessible to individuals with various disabilities, including mobility challenges. Here’s how we ensure that our office is welcoming and accommodating to all:
- Wheelchair Accessibility
Our office is fully wheelchair accessible, with wide doorways, ramps, and an elevator for easy navigation. Our exam rooms are also designed to accommodate wheelchairs, ensuring that every patient can comfortably receive care. If wheelchairs do not fit, we have trial frames to put lenses in and use brackets from eye assessment.
- Mobility Assistance
For patients with limited mobility, our staff is trained to assist with wheelchairs. - Sensory-Friendly Environment
We understand that some patients may have sensory sensitivities. To create a calming environment, we offer noise-cancelling headphones and face masks in a quiet waiting area. - Personalised Care Plans
Every patient is unique, and we take the time to understand their specific needs. Whether it’s adjusting the pace of the exam or providing additional support, we create personalized care plans to ensure a positive experience. Please contact us to communicate your needs before your appointment. - Technology for Accessibility
We leverage technology to enhance accessibility, such as using written digital communication and translation tools.
Are hard of hearing eye exams covered by MSP or disability assistance in BC?
Coverage depends on your age and situation. In British Columbia, MSP provides routine eye exam coverage for children and many seniors, and people who receive income or disability assistance may have additional optical benefits that help cover the cost of eye exams and glasses through provincial programs.
When you book, let our team know if you are on disability or income assistance, or if you have extended health benefits. We can help you understand what is covered, and we provide detailed receipts for any plans that require you to submit claims yourself.
Our Commitment to Continuous Improvement
We keep treating accessibility as a work in progress. Our team asks for feedback, tries new tools, and adjusts our routines so each visit feels a little easier than the last. Whether it’s investing in new technology, providing additional training for our team, or making physical adjustments to our office, we are dedicated to creating a space where everyone feels welcome.
A Message to Our Patients
To our patients who are hard of hearing or have other disabilities, we want you to know that your comfort and well-being are our top priorities. We are here to listen, adapt, and provide the care you deserve. If you have any specific needs or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out so that we can schedule extra time to make accommodations.
Our team is always ready to go the extra mile to ensure that your experience at Real Eyes Optometry is positive and stress-free. Contact us so that we can work out details for your visit
We prioritize inclusivity by tailoring eye exams for the hard of hearing.
1) Clear Communication: Our staff speaks clearly and uses visual cues like lip-reading and written instructions.
2) Non-Verbal Tools: Dr. Pati uses numbers, hand signals, and gestures during exams.
3) Personalized Assistance: We guide patients step-by-step, even meeting them at the entrance if needed.
4) Flexible Scheduling: We offer extra time to ensure a stress-free experience. Our goal is to make every patient feel comfortable and understood. Visit us for eye care that truly sees you!
The effort is at the heart of everything we do at Real Eyes Optometry. From tailored communication methods for patients who are hard of hearing to wheelchair accessibility and sensory-friendly accommodations, we strive to create an environment where everyone can access the eye care they need.
If you’re looking for an optometry practice that truly cares about your unique needs, we invite you to visit us and experience the difference for yourself.
Reviewed by Dr. Amit Sahota, Registered Optometrist (BScOD)
Hard-of-hearing eye exam FAQ
Can I bring an interpreter or support person to my eye exam?
Yes. You are welcome to bring an interpreter, family member, or support person to your visit. Many people who are deaf or hard of hearing prefer to have someone with them for medical appointments, and Canadian hearing loss organizations also recommend this as a communication support strategy.
What if I use sign language instead of lip reading?
Let us know when you book if you use ASL or another sign language, or if you prefer to communicate mainly through writing or apps. We will plan extra time and make sure your optometrist and staff are prepared to use more visual and written communication. For complex medical conversations, you may choose to bring a qualified interpreter.
How should I prepare for an eye exam if I am hard of hearing?
Before your appointment, you can email or call our clinic to tell us about your hearing needs. Some patients bring a small card that lists things like “I lip read,” “I use hearing aids,” or “I prefer written instructions,” which is a strategy also suggested by Canadian hearing loss organizations.
Are your Burnaby eye exams wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Our office in Metrotown has elevator access and wide doorways, and exam rooms that can accommodate most wheelchairs. If a chair does not fit in certain equipment, we use trial frames and portable tools so that we can still check your prescription and eye health thoroughly.
Can I request extra time for my appointment?
Absolutely. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have multiple disabilities, we encourage you to request a longer appointment when you book. That way we can schedule more time for questions, written explanations, and breaks if you need them.
