Characteristic Features of Adult Dyslexia
Because learners in adult literacy will most probably have some difficulty with reading/writing/number, the following list has concentrated on features other than literacy difficulty. Not all features will be present in an individual with dyslexia and, and, in isolation, no single feature would indicate dyslexia:
- Noticeable discrepancy between general abilities and abilities with reading, writing, spelling, handwriting and, at times, pronunciation or "getting the right word out".
- Discrepancy between intellect and the ability to learn literacy skills.
- Low self esteem is common.
- Organisation difficulties that make structured writing a hard task but also affect life in general, possibly creating impression of confusion and disorganisation in an otherwise sharp person.
- Air of distraction.
- Timekeeping and directions may be problematic for the individual.
- Directional difficulties - left/right confusion, map reading problems - individual may use tricks, strategies for remembering.
- Forgetting instructions and generally poor short-term memory. Oral instructions may cause particular difficulty.
- Sequencing difficulties that may cause difficulties with alphabetical order, months of the year, telephone numbers, number sequences, times tables.
- Family history of similar difficulties.
- Possibly difficulties with co-ordination - catching a ball, riding a bike, late to learn to tie shoe laces or tie a tie.
- There may be unusual learning styles or coping strategies.