What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common treatments for low vision include the use of magnification devices and low vision rehabilitation (LVR) services. Side effects of using magnification devices can include eye strain, headaches, and difficulty adapting to the device. Telerehabilitation, which involves remote delivery of LVR services, is generally well-accepted and feasible, but specific side effects are not well-documented. However, potential issues could include technical difficulties, reduced personal interaction, and challenges in accurately assessing and addressing patient needs remotely.

What prior FDA approvals exist?

The provided context does not mention specific FDA-approved treatments for low vision that are directly related to telerehabilitation. However, it highlights the potential of telerehabilitation as a promising solution for delivering low vision rehabilitation services remotely. This approach aims to overcome barriers such as transportation and geography, making it feasible and acceptable for both patients and providers. The use of beacon sensors to monitor the use of magnification devices is also being studied to enhance the effectiveness of telerehabilitation. Overall, while specific FDA-approved treatments for low vision related to telerehabilitation are not detailed, the concept is being actively explored to improve visual function in low vision patients.

What other types of research exist?

Promising, novel alternatives to telerehabilitation for low vision patients include: 1) Advanced wearable technology that provides real-time visual assistance and feedback, 2) AI-driven mobile applications that offer personalized visual training and support, 3) Augmented reality (AR) devices that enhance visual perception in real-world environments, and 4) Community-based rehabilitation programs that leverage local resources and support networks to provide in-person assistance without the need for extensive travel.

← Back to Search

Telerehabilitation for Low Vision (BeST-AID Trial)

N/A

Waitlist Available

Led By Ava K Bittner, OD, PhD

Research Sponsored by University of California, Los Angeles

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Be older than 18 years old

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up baseline, 1 month, 4 months

Awards & highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

Summary

This trial tests if remote video training and Bluetooth sensors can help people with low vision use magnifiers better. It aims to make it easier for patients who can't attend frequent in-office visits and to monitor their progress at home.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for adults with any level of vision loss from ocular disease who have just received new magnification devices. It's not suitable for those with substance abuse, significant hearing loss, major health issues affecting lifespan or participation, scheduling conflicts during the study period, cognitive impairments that affect communication and understanding, or need other types of low vision rehabilitation training.

What is being tested?

The trial is testing telerehabilitation—a way to train patients in using magnification devices via videoconferencing at home—against traditional in-office training. Participants will be randomly assigned to either home-based teletraining or additional office sessions after an initial office visit. The use of Bluetooth beacon sensors on devices will also be evaluated to monitor usage patterns.

What are the potential side effects?

Since this intervention involves non-invasive training and monitoring methods rather than medication or surgery, there are no direct medical side effects expected. However, participants may experience frustration or difficulty adapting to the technology used.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ baseline, 1 month, 4 months

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~baseline, 1 month, 4 months

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and baseline, 1 month, 4 months for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

Activity Inventory

Secondary study objectives

Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS)

Hospital Anxiety & Depression Scale

MNread

+1 more

Awards & Highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

All patients enrolled in this study will receive some form of active treatment.

Trial Design

3Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Telerehabilitation with low vision providerExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Group II: Telerehabilitation w/ low vision provider plus tele-extenderExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Group III: Usual Care (active control)Active Control1 Intervention

Treatment

First Studied

Drug Approval Stage

How many patients have taken this drug

Low Vision Rehabilitation

2019

N/A

~210

Do I qualify?Apply below to find out

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

The most common treatments for Low Vision (LV) include the use of magnification devices and telerehabilitation. Magnification devices, such as handheld magnifiers, work by enlarging text and objects, making them easier to see for individuals with reduced vision. Telerehabilitation involves remote delivery of low vision rehabilitation services, where patients receive training on how to use these devices effectively from the comfort of their homes. This approach is particularly important for LV patients as it addresses barriers like transportation and co-morbidities, ensuring continuous support and timely intervention to optimize visual function and improve quality of life.