Using robots to help people with low vision read better
Development of a Behavioral Intervention With Socially Assistive Robots to Enhance Magnification Device Use for Reading
PHASE1 · University of California, Los Angeles · NCT04190134
This study is testing a robot that helps people with low vision use reading magnifiers better so they can read more easily at home.
Quick facts
| Phase | PHASE1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of California, Los Angeles (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT04190134 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This exploratory research project aims to customize and evaluate a socially assistive robot designed to motivate individuals with vision loss to effectively use magnification devices for reading. The study focuses on enhancing patient acceptance and adherence to these devices, ultimately aiming to reduce visual disability in daily activities. Participants will receive support from the robot in their homes, addressing barriers to care such as transportation and access to rehabilitation services. The intervention targets individuals who have received magnification devices from the UCLA Vision Rehabilitation Center.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with any level of vision loss who have received a magnification device from the UCLA Vision Rehabilitation Center.
Not a fit: Patients with significant cognitive impairment, severe hearing loss, or those whose magnification devices are incompatible with the study's technology may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the reading abilities and overall quality of life for individuals with low vision.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of socially assistive robots in rehabilitation is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing patient engagement and adherence in other therapeutic contexts.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion 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.
Where this trial is running
Los Angeles, California
- UCLA Stein Eye Institute — Los Angeles, California, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ava K Bittner, OD, PhD — UCLA Stein Eye Institute; Vision Rehabilitation Center
- Study coordinator: Ava K Bittner, OD, PhD
- Email: abittner@mednet.ucla.edu
- Phone: 310-206-4649
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Low Vision, robot