Dyslexia - Optimus Dyslexia

Dyslexia

There is no one accepted definition of dyslexia. There is agreement, however, that dyslexia affects the development of reading, spelling and other language related skills. It is characterised by difficulties with working memory, processing speed and phonological awareness.

In addition to weaknesses in literacy skills, those with dyslexia may have problems with mathematics, concentration, time management, personal organisation and sequencing. Sometimes it can be difficult to pronounce words or there can be the experience of words being ‘on the tip of the tongue’.

Dyslexia is a set of processing difficulties that affect the acquisition of reading and spelling. The most commonly observed cognitive impairment in dyslexia is a difficulty in phonological processing (i.e. in phonological awareness, phonological processing speed or phonological memory). However, phonological difficulties do not fully explain the variability that is observed. Working memory, processing speed and orthographic skills can contribute to the impact of dyslexia.

From: The Delphi Definition of Dyslexia (2024)

Assessments for adults

Some adults with dyslexia manage to overcome day to day literacy difficulties and many people with dyslexia are extremely successful. They often, however, describe having to put more effort into completing tasks than others, and they may find that they misread words, confuse dates and times, suddenly go blank when trying to spell etc

Finding out that you are dyslexic is a very positive step. It helps you to understand why you have struggled in certain areas and may well explain low self-esteem. It also helps you to plan a successful way forward.

Our assessment reports are suitable for a Disabled Student’s Allowance (DSA) application https://www.gov.uk/disabled-students-allowance-dsa and an Access to Work application https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work

Assessments for children (from 8 years of age)

It can be very difficult to know the right time to ask for a dyslexia assessment. The British Dyslexia Association states, ‘Early help is vital to reduce the chance of loss of confidence and low self-esteem.’ Our aim is therefore to pick up any difficulties early so that the barriers that are holding back progress can be identified and correctly focused support can be suggested. We also hope that an assessment can help your child develop greater confidence in their ability to succeed, despite any past disappointments.