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Making Driving Possible for People with Central Vision Loss
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Helping people with central vision loss drive using bioptic telescopes mounted on glasses
Research Project
Challenge
Approximately 180,000 Australians have central vision loss, making them unable to meet the visual acuity requirement for a private driver’ s licence. Driving is a key aspect of autonomy, so not being able to drive can severely impact independence and participation in society.
Solution
Increased awareness, advocating for supportive policies and evidence on the application and safety of driving with bioptic telescopes at UNSW and in the UNSW Optometry Clinic, aims to influence policy changes and support the eyecare community. This project seeks to remove barriers and enable more Australians to benefit from this technology, ensuring that vision impairment does not equate to a loss of independence.
Target customers / end-users
• people with central vision loss
• eyecare practitioners
• government officials: Driving Licensing Guidelines.
Progress
• consumer panel established to track impact and provide recommendations
• steering committee: formed a multi-stakeholder committee guiding implementation and evaluation.
Policy engagement
Healthy Living
Bioptic telescopes help drivers with central vision loss to identify distance details. With a quick glance through the telescope, drivers can read signs and navigate safely. Growing engagement from clinicians, advocacy groups and policymakers highlights the potential for national adoption that will restore independence for Australians with vision impairment.
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