Influence of Low Vision Assistive Technology on Mobility Among Visually Impaired Individuals

NCT07055646 | Active Not Recruiting DMC

• 1 other identifier: MSAHSW/Batch-Fall23/925
• Study Type: observational
• Target: 60
• Locations: 1 country
• Sites: 1

Brief Summary

This study investigates the influence of low vision assistive technology (AT) on the mobility and independence of individuals with visual impairments. The research aims to explore how various low vision devices, such as electronic travel aids, magnifiers, GPS-based navigation tools, and smartphone applications, impact the ability of visually impaired individuals to move safely and confidently within different environments.

Conditions

Visual Impairment

Outcome Measures

Primary Outcomes (1)

• low vision Orientation and Mobility (O&M) assessment

  A low vision Orientation and Mobility (O\&M) assessment evaluates an individual's ability to navigate their environment, considering their vision impairment. These assessments often involve a combination of observation, interviews, and standardized tests to gauge skills in orientation (understanding one's position) and mobility (moving safely). Scoring systems vary, but they generally aim to quantify the level of support needed and track progress over time

  12 Months

Study Arms (3)

Traditional Assistive Technology

Diagnostic Test: Traditional Assistive Technology

Digital Assistive Technology

Diagnostic Test: Digital Assistive Technology

Combined Technology Users

Combination Product: Combined Technology Users

Interventions

Traditional Assistive Technology DIAGNOSTIC_TEST

Participants in Group 1 utilize traditional, non-digital assistive devices designed to enhance mobility and spatial orientation

Traditional Assistive Technology

Digital Assistive Technology DIAGNOSTIC_TEST

Participants in Group 2 use modern, digital assistive technologies specifically designed to improve navigation, orientation, and real-time decision-making for visually impaired individuals

Digital Assistive Technology

Combined Technology Users COMBINATION_PRODUCT

Participants in Group 3 use a combination of traditional tools (e.g., cane, magnifiers) alongside modern digital aids (e.g., smart canes, GPS apps). This group is important to examine how integrated usage of both types of technologies

Combined Technology Users

Eligibility Criteria

• Sex: all
• Healthy Volunteers: No
• Age Groups: Child (0-17), Adult (18-64), Older Adult (65+)
• Sampling Method: Non-Probability Sample

Study Population

The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques. Quantitatively, surveys and structured questionnaires are administered to a diverse sample of visually impaired participants to assess frequency of AT use, types of devices utilized, and self-reported improvements in mobility. Qualitatively, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions provide deeper insight into user experiences, challenges, and preferences.

You may qualify if:

• any age.
• low vision (visual acuity less than 6/18 but equal to or better than 3/60 in the better eye, even with best correction).
• Regular users (minimum 3 months) of at least one type of assistive technology (traditional, digital, or both).
• Able to communicate verbally or in writing (independently or with assistance).
• Willing to provide informed consent and participate in interviews or surveys.

You may not qualify if:

• Total blindness (no light perception), as the study focuses on low vision.
• Individuals who have not used any assistive technology for mobility.
• Participants currently enrolled in vision rehabilitation training that could bias the outcomes.
• Those with temporary visual impairment (e.g., post-surgery recovery) rather than permanent low vision.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Superior University: lead

Study Sites (1)

LRBT Tertiary Teaching Eye Hospital (Korangi)

Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan

Location

MeSH Terms

Conditions

Vision Disorders

Condition Hierarchy (Ancestors)

Sensation Disorders; Neurologic Manifestations; Nervous System Diseases; Eye Diseases; Signs and Symptoms; Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms

Study Design

• Study Type: observational
• Observational Model: CASE CONTROL
• Time Perspective: RETROSPECTIVE
• Sponsor Type: OTHER
• Responsible Party: PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
• PI Title: Principal Investigator

Study Record Dates

• First Submitted: June 28, 2025
• First Posted: July 9, 2025
• Study Start: March 17, 2025
• Primary Completion: September 1, 2025
• Study Completion: February 1, 2026
• Last Updated: July 9, 2025

Record last verified: 2025-06

Data Sharing

• IPD Sharing: Will not share

Locations

PA (1)