Low contrast vision function predicts subsequent acuity loss in an aged population: the SKI study

Can vision tests predict subsequent loss of acuity? The association between performance on several low contrast spatial vision measures, glare recovery, color discrimination, flicker sensitivity, stereopsis and ocular disease status at baseline and acuity loss 4.4 years later was examined in a large aged random sample with good initial acuity. In univariate analyses, several vision measures, retinal disease status and age were each significant predictors of subsequent acuity loss. In a multiple regression analysis, only low contrast spatial vision was a significant predictor, but the other vision measures, retinal disease status and age were not. For each doubling of low contrast spatial vision threshold at baseline, individuals were more than two times as likely to suffer subsequent significant visual acuity loss. Tests of low contrast spatial vision are strong predictors of significant subsequent visual acuity loss. These findings have implications for clinical trials, clinical management, and acceptance of these measures into clinical practice.