Telerehabilitation for Low Vision
(BeST-AID Trial)
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
One goal of this research is to conduct a non-inferiority trial of telerehabilitation versus in-office care to provide follow-up training to individuals with low vision to enhance their quality of life by using magnification devices and/or visual assistive mobile apps for important daily activities, such as reading and/or other valued tasks. This is a high priority given the increasing prevalence of low vision, paucity of low vision rehabilitation providers, and barriers related to access to care, such as transportation and geography, which can be essentially eliminated with telerehabilitation. Another goal of this project is to determine whether significant changes in environmental data collected by Bluetooth low energy beacon sensors can be used as a solution to monitor and indicate when low vision patients' have abandoned the use of their magnification devices, which has the potential to substantially enhance patient management by providing timely low vision rehabilitation services.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on vision rehabilitation, so it's best to discuss your medications with the trial coordinators.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment for low vision rehabilitation?
Is telerehabilitation for low vision safe for humans?
How is telerehabilitation for low vision different from other treatments?
Telerehabilitation for low vision is unique because it allows patients to receive rehabilitation services remotely, using technology to improve reading ability and access to care without needing to travel. This approach is particularly beneficial for those with limited access to providers and helps overcome transportation barriers.3671011
Research Team
Ava K Bittner, OD, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of California, Los Angeles
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults over 18 with any level of vision loss from ocular disease, who've just received new magnification devices or visual assistive apps. It's not for those with conflicting schedules, substance abuse issues, severe hearing loss, major health conditions limiting participation or lifespan, communication difficulties regarding visual stimuli, need other low vision training, or have incompatible device features.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive low vision rehabilitation through either in-office care or telerehabilitation using magnification devices and visual assistive mobile apps
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for adherence to device use and satisfaction with rehabilitation services
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Low Vision Rehabilitation
Low Vision Rehabilitation is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Low vision due to various causes including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and other conditions leading to visual impairment
- Visual impairment due to various ophthalmological conditions, including but not limited to macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma
- Low vision resulting from conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and other causes of visual impairment
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, Los Angeles
Lead Sponsor
Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University
Collaborator
University of Nebraska
Collaborator
New England College of Optometry
Collaborator
Mid-Michigan Eye Care
Collaborator