A clock-face method of outdoor scanning and tracking using sports cones: A case study of a client with post-stroke visual field loss

The participant in this case study is a 65 year old male, who had a right posterior cerebral artery stroke. He undertook a compensatory scanning program though continued to experience collisions with objects in familiar and unfamiliar environments. He was later referred to Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, Australia for orientation and mobility (O&M) services. The second author (instructor) assessed and identified this client’s functional field of vision using an outdoor clock-face method by placing sports cones of various colours on the ground in front of the client at specific distances. The clock-face method was also used to facilitate consistent and effective scanning and tracking training in environments of various complexities in which the participant needed to travel. Importantly, the scanning and tracking technique commenced at the client’s feet, assisting him to avoid tripping and falling. Post-training, the client reported that he is more aware of his visual field deficit to the extent that he was surprised his visual field had not actually increased. He has not reported any falls or collisions post-training and experiences increased confidence travelling in the community.