J S Wolffsohn¹, M Karas²
¹Aston University, Neurosciences Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom; ²Royal National Institute for the Blind, Low Vision and Prevention Unit, London, United Kingdom
Purpose: To determine how quantitative and qualitative changes of visual function with low vision rehabilitation services are most appropriately measured and archived for clinical audit. Methods: Research papers from the last two decades were reviewed to examine measures of visual function used in low vision clinics and attempts at clinical audit. Specific areas of visual function assessment, such as distance and near reading acuity, contrast sensitivity, glare, visual field measurement and quality-of-life, were reviewed to determine the most appropriate validated methods of clinical audit. Results: Few papers have been published on low vision audit or on the measurement of visual function by low vision rehabilitation clinics around the world. Much research has been conducted to validate the measurement of some areas of visual function, such as visual acuity and quality-of-life, whereas there is little standardisation or validation of other areas, such as visual field quantification and the effects of glare. Conclusion: The increasing necessity for clinical audit of low vision rehabilitation services must be based on validated, standardised techniques. Although some measures of visual function are appropriate for clinical audit, research and clinical development is much needed in other areas.
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