K Inde
Lund University, Certec, Dept of Design Sciences, Lund, Sweden
Background. Since 1971 low vision rehabilitation is a well-accepted service in Sweden. The trial-and-error-period in the early 70's led to the book "Synträning med optik" (Bäckman-Inde, Liber Hermods 1975), released in English in 1979 called Low Vision Training . (It is now translated into seven more languages). The model of eccentric reading training was first presented in an official article by Krister Inde (Low Vision Training in Sweden, Journal of Visual Impairment and Blindness) in October 1978.
Purposes. Methods for eccentric fixation training are now developed at Certec, University of Lund, Sweden. Outside of showing that eccentric correction is needed in individuals with visual field loss (CFL) at far distance (optometrist Jörgen Gustafsson), we focus on reading speed training by using eccentric correction (when appropriate) and an electronically scrolled eternal line of text-program. The patient can adjust scrolling speed, magnification and background. The program is called Widesight Reading Program (WRP). The purpose is to expand the number of efficient training methods for patients with central field loss.
Results. The results show that consumers with CFL can develop and increase their reading speed by means of intensive eccentric training using the methods described above.
Conclusions. Low vision rehabilitation must expand the numbers of methods helping consumers to read faster but not loosing track of the content. WRP is a tool of that kind and at the same time the training tool can also be used as a permanent part of a bundled computer program.
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