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Writer's pictureNancy T. Colantino, MA, CCC-SLP

Discovering Hope: The Journey to Dyslexia Treatment at Any Age

Updated: Oct 30, 2023

When is it too late for dyslexia treatment?


Boy with dyslexia reading with the help of Assistive Technology

A client recently asked, “When is it too late for dyslexia treatment?” The conversation that followed inspired me to write this blog. I hope you find it helpful!


Introduction


Dyslexia is a learning disorder that affects the ability to read, write, and spell. It’s not something that one outgrows, and its impact can persist throughout a person's life. However, the question that often arises is, “When is it too late for dyslexia treatment?” In this blog we'll explore this important question and shed light on the various options available for individuals with dyslexia at different stages of life.


Early Intervention


Dyslexia is most effectively addressed through early intervention. The earlier the diagnosis and intervention, the better the outcomes. Some early signs to look out for include:


1. Delayed speech or language development.

2. Difficulty learning to recognize letters and their associated sounds.

3. Struggles with rhyming and phonological awareness.

4. Problems with spelling and reading comprehension.

5. Frustration and anxiety related to reading and writing.


If you notice these signs in your child, its essential to seek professional assessment and intervention as early as possible. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your child’s ability to manage dyslexia effectively.


Late Diagnosis in Adolescence and Beyond


But what if dyslexia goes undiagnosed until adolescence or even later in life? Is it too late for treatment? The answer is a resounding, NO. Dyslexia can be diagnosed at any age, and individuals can benefit from various interventions and strategies to improve their reading and writing skills.


Middle and high school can be a challenging time for any student, but those with dyslexia face unique obstacles in their academic journey. They may have difficulties like recognizing words, decoding text, and spelling accurately just to name a few. With the right support, these students can succeed.


Treatment Options and Support


1. Multisensory Orton-Gillingham-based approaches: This structured, multisensory method can be beneficial for people of all ages, teaching them to decode words and improve their reading, spelling, and writing skills.

2. Individualized Education Plan (IEP): Collaborate with educators to develop a customized IEP that outlines specific accommodations and interventions for your child.

3. Assistive Technology (AT): Explore the use of assistive technology tools like text-to-speech software, audiobooks, and speech recognition software to make learning more accessible. AT can open doors for learners and build confidence and independence.

4. Extended Time: Provide students with dyslexia additional time for assignments and assessments to alleviate stress and ensure that they have a fair opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge.

5. Highlight Strengths: Emphasize the strengths that often accompany dyslexia, such as creativity, problem-solving, and strong spatial awareness.

6. Encourage Self-Advocacy: Teach your child to advocate for themselves by explaining their learning needs to teachers and peers. This builds confidence and self-reliance.

7. Supportive Environment: Foster an atmosphere that is understanding and patient. Encourage others to be empathetic and supportive.

8. Reading Aloud: Encourage your child to read aloud regularly, as this can improve reading fluency and comprehension.

9. Executive Function Skills: Develop executive function skills, such as organization and time management, to help your child manage their workload effectively.

10. Parent-Teacher Collaboration: Maintain open communication with teachers to ensure a unified approach to support your child both at home and at school.


Final Thoughts


It's never too late to seek treatment and support for dyslexia. Early intervention is ideal, but even if dyslexia is diagnosed in adolescence or adulthood, there are still numerous strategies and interventions available to help individuals improve their reading and writing skills. The key is to seek out the right resources and support, as well as to advocate for accommodations in educational and professional settings. A Speech-Language Pathologist is an expert in oral language development, which is the foundation for learning to read, spell, and write. One who specializes in reading and structured literacy can be your greatest ally. Dyslexia does not define a person's potential, and with the right interventions, individuals can thrive in literacy and all aspects of their lives.


You are always welcome to learn more about my dyslexia assessment and treatment services or contact me to see how I can support you or your child on this journey.

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