The impact of functional vision changes on independent travel for individuals with adult-onset visual impairment

This study explored experiences with functional vision changes resulting from adult-onset vision conditions. The impact of glare, light-to-dark adaptation, depth perception, night blindness, and contrast sensitivity are examined for the way participants perceive their effects on willingness to engage in independent travel.

Two interviews were conducted with 13 participants. These consisted of structured and semi-structured, open-ended questions to determine the impact of functional vision changes on mobility and pedestrian travel. Qualitative, open and a priori coding was used to derive themes and categories for the most significant functional vision considerations among participants.

This study revealed changes in functional vision impact participants’ perceived safety and were of concern when considering independent travel. Orientation and mobility (O&M) services were denied to some participants who had surrendered driving privileges and were considered vision impaired, but not legally blind, even though issues with functional vision impacted safer travel.

The impact of functional vision changes on individuals with adult-onset vision impairment was found to affect participant mobility. Agencies serving this population can provide clients with safer travel options when all functional vision changes are considered beyond acuity and field of vision loss.