PC adjustments for Scotopic Sensitivity (also known as Irlen-Meares Syndrome or Visual Stress)

Optimising a Computer Screen
Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome

Brightness & Contrast

I always adjust the screens brightness and contrast settings as follows:

	Brightness - low (dull)
	Contrast - low (so there is less contrast)

Also where possible I use a LCD type screen (ie. laptop type screen). I avoid CRT screens.

Alter Software Settings
For comfort and ease of use I also adjust Microsoft Windows screen/display settings so that the background of all my Windows is a mid-blue. For instance, this means when I am using Microsoft Word the words that I am typing/reading appear on a mid-blue background instead of the usual white background.

Adjustment of screen settings can be made in Window98, WindowsME, WindowsXP and Windows Vista.

For example in Windows XP:
(I take no responsibility for damage done to your PC/screen/software by following these instructions.)

	Select the windows "Start" button on the bottom left of the screen.
	Select "Settings"
	Select "Control Panel"
	Double Click "Display" which will open the "Display Properties Window"
	Choose "Appearance" from the top of the "Display Properties Window" as shown below:
	click "Advanced" button to open "Advanced Appearance" window as shown below:

	Select "Window" from the dropdown box marked "Item:"
	Select "Color 1:" (click on colored area below the word "Color 1:" which is right of the "Item:" dropdown box). Either choose one of the colors shown or click "Other..." to choose a color which suits you.
	When finished press the "OK" then "Apply" button to save your changes.
	It may be necessary to restart the computer before your changes take effect.

Similarly I also adjust font sizes and colors to suit my vision (this can also done from the "Advanced Properties" window)

Note... You will be unable to change the display settings in windows xp if you do not have administrator rights. If you are unsure try and change the settings because if you don't have administrator rights your computer will simply not make the changes - even if you are on an office network nobody will ever know you tried to make the changes - big brother isn't watching!!

...written for all the children and adults suffering
from and working with those who
suffer from similar problems...

Contact: Alison Hale hale@ndo.co.uk