Socially Assistive Robots to Enhance Magnification Device Use for Reading

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, LOS ANGELES · Dec 5, 2019

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring a new way to help people with vision loss use magnification devices for reading. Researchers are testing a socially assistive robot designed to motivate and support individuals as they learn to use these devices effectively. The goal is to help participants feel more comfortable and skilled with their magnifiers, making it easier for them to read and perform daily activities. This is especially important because many people with vision loss face challenges in accessing rehabilitation services.

To participate in the trial, individuals must be 18 years or older and have some level of vision loss due to any eye condition. They should also have received a magnification device from the UCLA Vision Rehabilitation Center. Participants can expect to work with the robot during the study, which will help them practice using their magnifiers at home. It’s an exciting opportunity for those looking to improve their reading skills and maintain their independence.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Individuals with any level of vision loss due to any ocular disease,
• • age 18 and older,
• • received a magnification device(s) (i.e., hand-held optical magnifiers, portable electronic video magnifiers, some stand magnifiers and CCTVs) from the UCLA Vision Rehabilitation Center.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • schedules not permitting participation in planned study sessions or visits (including planning to move or take extended vacation during study period),
• • inability to understand study procedures or communicate responses to visual stimuli in a consistent manner (cognitive impairment as per TICS),
• • substance abuse,
• • significant hearing loss (unable to hear communication by phone or from robot),
• • significant medical condition likely to limit participation or lifespan,
• • their magnifier device has features that would not work in conjunction with the beacon sensors: (1) hands-free and do not have a place where the patient's hand is holding the device during use (therefore, they would not register a significant change in temperature), and/or (2) no surface area of at least 1"x1" to which the beacon sensor could be attached without interfering with the device.