Thursday, May 22, 2014

Dyslexia Treatment For Adults Improves The Quality Of Life

By Marci Glover


Computers process information using the same basic steps each time, producing results with dependable accuracy. The human brain, however, is individually unique, especially when interpreting visual symbols. Young people having difficulty learning to read, spell or recognize words may incorrectly be considered slow, or even labeled unteachable. When time does not resolve this issue, dyslexia treatment for adults can help.

Some people may humorously excuse occasional errors in their speech or reading by saying they are dyslexic, but for many the problem is no joke. It is considered the most common learning disability, and often results in reading below standard levels. Even though it commonly manifests itself in degraded skills with language, the issue really has nothing to do with innate intelligence, overall mental function, or accomplishments.

Like young learners, grownups with dyslexia experience many similar challenges. Common issues include difficulty learning to recognize sequences, making letter and sound reversals, problems with spelling, and the inability to concentrate. Some people experience coordination issues. Although the genetic predisposition can be inherited, this is not a disease or defect, but rather a difference in brain function.

Being erroneously categorized as unintelligent, lacking in ability, or slow when young creates huge social and emotional barriers that resonate throughout adulthood. While no medication can change the architecture of individual brains, there are ways of stimulating positive brain changes through practiced cognitive techniques. With the right help, the doors that were slammed shut in childhood may reopen, creating new social and personal opportunities.

Many grown people improve their options by re-learning how to read, with an emphasis on recognizing letters and sounds. This involves emphasizing the phonetic signature of letter combinations, and associating those sounds with the appearance of written language. This usually requires structured practice, and guided repetition can actually help increase the desired electrical brain activity.

Reading for understanding rather than rote repetition of words is also useful, especially when accompanied by identical audio versions. While the idea of reading may be associated with negative emotions, people using this approach have shown improved capacity in a relatively short time. Written language skills can be increased by understanding how sounds and symbols relate, both alone and in sequences.

Getting around these problems associated with recognizing letters and symbols sometimes requires adopting strategies that help compensate. Examples include using GPS when understanding directions are a problem, or using software that changes writing to speech, or the opposite. Software programs of many varieties routinely include spell check. Some people also use sound-associations to conquer troublesome word combinations, or use color codes to symbolize directions.

While people may be individually successful in fighting dyslexia, many benefit from the help of professionals who have knowledge of the latest techniques and tools. The result is not only an increase in personal productivity, but in greater self-confidence and well-being. Resources and programs can be individually tailored to make targeted improvements in those areas causing the most problems for adults in the workplace.




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