NotesFAQContact Us
Collection
Advanced
Search Tips
Back to results
Peer reviewed Peer reviewed
Direct linkDirect link
ERIC Number: EJ849484
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2009-Apr
Pages: 13
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0145-482X
EISSN: N/A
Effectiveness of Assistive Technologies for Low Vision Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review
Jutai, Jeffrey W.; Strong, J. Graham; Russell-Minda, Elizabeth
Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness, v103 n4 p210-222 Apr 2009
"Low vision" describes any condition of diminished vision that is uncorrectable by standard eyeglasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery that disrupts a person's ability to perform common age-appropriate visual tasks. Examples of assistive technologies for vision rehabilitation include handheld magnifiers; electronic vision-enhancement systems; and mobility-related devices, such as long canes and night-vision systems. These types of devices and interventions allow individuals with low vision to lead productive lives and to maintain their independence in everyday activities. Often, success with an assistive device is determined by how well the device performs and how satisfied the user is with it. The desired outcome of low vision rehabilitation is for individuals to attain the maximum function of any remaining vision they may have; increase their level of functional ability; increase their independence; and, as a result, improve their quality of life. Outcome measures for determining the effectiveness of assistive devices and vision rehabilitation include both subjective (a person's preference) and objective (such as improved reading ability) measures of performance. This article presents a systematic review of all types of assistive devices. The primary research objective of this review was to answer the following question: For adults who have low vision, what is the evidence for the effectiveness of commonly prescribed assistive technology interventions for rehabilitation? The categories of assistive technology included optical devices and electronic vision-enhancement systems, mobility-related devices (long canes and night-vision systems), prisms or field enhancement devices, lighting and filters, and adaptive computer technologies. A secondary objective was to synthesize the research evidence related to the following outcome measures with these types of assistive devices for vision rehabilitation: (1) preference; (2) ease of use or satisfaction; and (3) performance. (Contains 1 table.)
American Foundation for the Blind. 11 Penn Plaza Suite 300, New York, NY 10001. Tel: 800-232-5463; Tel: 212-502-7600; e-mail: afbinfo@afb.net; Web site: http://www.afb.org/store
Publication Type: Information Analyses; Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A