Training and practice effects in performance with low-vision aids: a preliminary study

Reading speed and duration were measured for 24 low vision subjects, 12 learning to use closed circuit television and 12 learning to use optical aids. Reading speed and duration increased for both groups during 10 days of training and practice. Improvement occurred by steplike increases and plateaus. Visual acuity was not correlated with either performance measure; reading speed on the initial day of training was correlated with reading speed on the last day. The results have implications for both the prescription of aids and the training of low-vision patients.