Using technology to help people with low vision use magnification devices effectively
Official title: Beacon Sensors and Telerehabilitation to Assess and Improve use of Devices (BeST-AID) for Low Vision
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10928795 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how video calls can help people with low vision learn to use magnification devices from the comfort of their own homes, making it easier for them to get the support they need to improve their daily lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $367,886 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034627-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10928795 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with low vision who struggle to attend in-person rehabilitation sessions due to transportation or health-related issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have access to the necessary technology for remote training or who do not use magnification devices may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how real-time videoconferencing can provide remote training for individuals with low vision to use magnification devices effectively. By overcoming barriers such as transportation and health concerns, the study aims to deliver low vision rehabilitation services directly to patients in their homes. Additionally, it explores the use of Bluetooth beacon sensors to monitor device usage and identify when patients may need further assistance. The goal is to ensure that patients receive timely support to enhance their daily living activities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the ability of individuals with low vision to use assistive devices, enhancing their independence and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary evidence suggests that telerehabilitation for low vision is feasible and may be as effective as traditional in-office rehabilitation, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bittner, Ava K — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Bittner, Ava K
Related research
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.