The Wide Angle Mobility Lamp (WAML), a low-vision mobility device used by people experiencing night blindness but few daytime travel problems, provides travel assistance more similar to that of daytime travel than the ITT Night Viewer (ITT), according to a new study.
Researchers conducted engineering evaluations on both devices, including manufacturer’s specifications, ergonomic characteristics, modifications, and pedestrian safety issues.
Twenty-seven patients with retinitis pigmentosa gave rehabilitation evaluations on each device. Investigators found both devices improved nighttime travel for people with night blindness as compared with nighttime travel with no device.
Although some participants preferred the ITT, overall most patients performed better with the WAML.
Journal of Rehabilitation Research & Development – pg 471
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Judith LaVoie
judithvard
VA Research Communications Service
vard