5.2 - How the Brain Sees: Vision Centers and Their Functions

We see with our eyes—but we understand the world with our brain. What happens when that processing system breaks down?

Think of your eyes as high-definition cameras—and your brain as the editing studio. The cameras may work perfectly, but if the studio’s wiring is fried, the final product is scrambled.

Vision Pathways in the Brain

Over half of the brain is involved in visual processing. Key areas include:

• Occipital lobe – basic visual decoding (color, shape, motion)

• Parietal lobe – spatial awareness, visual attention, coordination

• Temporal lobe – object recognition, facial identification

• Frontal lobe – planning eye movements, attention control

• Brainstem and cerebellum – stability, balance, visual reflexes

Brain-Based Vision Disorders Can Include:

• Visual agnosia (can see but not recognize objects)

• Hemianopia and quadrantanopia

• Visual neglect

• Oculomotor dysfunctions (eye movement issues)

• Visual memory problems

• Light sensitivity and motion discomfort

📊 More than 60% of people with acquired brain injuries experience at least one visual processing disorder.

Vision Therapy Tools

• Neuro-vision assessments

• Cognitive vision training

• Visual memory and pattern recall exercises

• Eye-tracking and saccadic drills

• Collaborative care with OT, PT, and speech/language therapy

Quote to Remember

Final Thoughts

Understanding the neuro-visual system unlocks better care, better outcomes, and better quality of life for people recovering from stroke, trauma, or developmental conditions. When we treat the brain behind the eyes, we treat the whole person.