Sep 10, 2026 · 59 min
Vision training reframes focus, balance and brain health
198. Dr. Bryce Appelbaum: Your Eyes Are Connected to Everything—Focus, Balance, Brain Health & Aging
The episode argues that visual function shapes learning, movement, balance and aging in ways routine eyesight tests may miss.
- 1Functional vision includes eye movement, depth perception, focus, balance and visual processing—not just clarity on an eye chart.
- 2Screens, developmental differences, dyslexia, ADHD-related symptoms and concussions can expose weaknesses in the eye-brain system.
- 3Targeted evaluation, vision therapy and daily habits may help preserve visual flexibility, mobility and confidence across aging.
Don't miss
Bryce Appelbaum lays out a comprehensive functional vision evaluation that tests tracking, focus, depth perception, eye teaming and visual processing.
The brief
Neuro-optometrist Bryce Appelbaum distinguishes eyesight from vision: the latter depends on the brain coordinating focus, eye movements, depth, balance and spatial awareness.
Screens and near-focus demands can challenge visual coordination, while developmental differences may surface as reading, attention, movement or sensory problems.
The conversation connects visual-spatial dysfunction with dyslexia, ADHD-related symptoms, concussion recovery, vertigo and age-related changes that ordinary eye exams may overlook.
Appelbaum describes a two-hour functional evaluation and personalized training using eye tracking, virtual or augmented reality, home exercises and ScreenFit.
The practical prescription is deliberately broad: distance viewing, screen breaks, outdoor light, movement, sleep, nutrition and short daily eye exercises support visual function.
Featuring
Mentioned
National Institutes of HealthBooks & mentions
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