Night-vision goggles for night-blind subjects: subjective evaluation after 2 years of use

To evaluate the usefulness of night-vision goggles (NVG) for night-blind subjects after 1 and 2 years of use.

Eleven night-blind subjects with retinitis pigmentosa used NVG for a 2-year period. At the end of each year, they were requested to fill-in two questionnaires regarding their use of the instrument.

At both the 1- and 2-year evaluations, the subjects reported fewer problems with mobility in the dark when they used the goggles. At the 2-year evaluation, two individuals stated that they had stopped using the instrument, while seven used it at least twice a week. The nine subjects still using the instrument after 2 years reported an increase in their sense of independence and an increase in their potential for activities. The instrument was used most often during the dark winter season and for purposes such as visiting friends and family, travelling to work or sports, attending meetings and strolling.

At the 2-year follow-up, NVG were still being used by most of the night-blind subjects. Moreover, the device had a positive effect on the subjects' experienced opportunities and sense of independence. The instrument was considered useful in the daily lives of our subjects.