Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 16, 2026
A Standardized Obstacle Course for Assessment of Visual Function in Ultra Low Vision and Artificial Vision
Published on: February 11, 2014
Vision and self-reported mobility performance in patients with low vision
Sarah A Bibby1, Erin R Maslin, Roberta McIlraith
1Department of Optometry and Vision Science, The University of Auckland, New Zealand.
Background:
As vision plays a significant role in mobility performance, it is usual to refer low vision patients, particularly those who complain of mobility difficulties, for orientation and mobility (O&M) training to help them maintain safe independent travel. Our study aimed to determine whether there was a relationship between measures of vision and self-reported mobility, and the applicability of a patient-based mobility assessment in patients with heterogeneous causes of visual loss.
Method:
We assessed the high and low contrast visual acuity, visual field and scanning ability of 30 patients with low vision. A validated mobility questionnaire was used to assess the participants' perceived visual ability for independent mobility.
Results:
Vision was significantly correlated with self-reported mobility performance, however, visual field was a significant predictor accounting for 56.5 per cent of the variance. The instrument was well constructed with valid content and high reliability scores.
Conclusions:
Self-reported mobility performance together with measures of vision could be used as a guide to refer patients for O&M training. The patient-based assessment instrument was valid to measure perceived visual ability for independent mobility in patients with heterogeneous causes of visual loss.
