VR-Based Mobility Training for Low Vision
(VR-IOMS Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) technology in teaching people with low vision to safely navigate streets. Participants will be divided into three groups to compare learning from VR-based training (Orientation and Mobility Training with VR-IOMSs), traditional human-led training, and educational videos. The trial seeks individuals with stable visual impairment who haven't received formal navigation training and who struggle with tasks like crossing streets. The goal is to determine if VR can match or surpass human instruction in improving mobility skills. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance mobility training for those with visual impairments.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are under aggressive treatment for ocular diseases, such as receiving VEGF injections, you may not be eligible to participate.
What prior data suggests that these VR-based mobility training methods are safe for low vision patients?
Research has shown that virtual reality-based training, such as the VR-IOMS being tested, is generally safe for people with low vision. Studies have found that virtual reality training is as effective as practicing in real-life settings. This approach is not only helpful but also well-tolerated.
The VR-IOMS allows individuals to learn and practice crossing streets and navigating outdoor environments without actual traffic exposure. This setup provides a safe and controlled environment, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries during training. Past research has not reported any serious problems associated with this type of training.
Overall, virtual reality training for orientation and mobility appears to be a safe and promising method to help people with low vision improve their skills.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about VR-based mobility training for low vision because it offers a cutting-edge approach using Virtual Reality-based Intelligent Orientation and Mobility Specialists (VR-IOMSs). Unlike traditional methods that rely on human Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists (COMS) in real-world settings, this virtual reality system uses intelligent, computer-controlled programs to help participants learn crucial navigation skills in simulated environments. This innovative method not only provides a safe and controlled space for practice but also allows for personalized, on-demand training, which could revolutionize how individuals with low vision gain independence.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for low vision?
This trial will compare different methods of Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training for individuals with low vision. Studies have shown that virtual reality (VR) creates lifelike environments that help people with low vision improve their O&M skills. Participants in this trial may receive VR-based training with VR-IOMS, which effectively simulates real-world situations for practicing important skills safely. Early findings suggest that these VR systems help users better judge traffic and learn how to navigate outdoors. Another group in this trial will receive traditional O&M training with human specialists, which has already been proven to greatly improve travel independence and quality of life for people with visual impairments. Both methods aim to enhance navigation skills, but VR-IOMS offers a unique, technology-driven approach with promising early results.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Lei Liu, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with low vision who have not had formal orientation and mobility (O&M) training, can hear normally or with correction, aim to improve O&M skills, and have stable late-onset visual impairment. They should be able to perform basic tasks like using a mouse or joystick and walking short distances. People with rapidly progressing eye diseases, aggressive treatments ongoing, congenital impairments, existing mastery of the skills being taught, difficulty speaking English, or a history of seizures/motion sickness cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-training Evaluation
Participants are evaluated by COMSs in real streets to assess baseline O&M task performance
Training
Participants undergo training using VR-IOMS, human COMS, or watch educational videos
Post-training Evaluation
Participants are evaluated by COMSs in real streets to assess O&M task performance after training
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for retention of training effects and safety in O&M tasks
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- No Orientation and Mobility Training
- Orientation and Mobility Training with COMS
- Orientation and Mobility Training with VR-IOMSs
Orientation and Mobility Training with VR-IOMSs is already approved in United States for the following indications:
- Teaching orientation and mobility task skills to low vision patients
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Lead Sponsor
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Collaborator
Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind
Collaborator