Influence of Low Vision Assistive Technology on Mobility Among Visually Impaired Individuals

Abstract

Background: Visual impairment affects nearly 295 million individuals worldwide, with low- and middle-income countries bearing the highest burden. Low Vision Assistive Technologies (LVAT) have been developed to enhance mobility and independence among those with residual vision, but real-world evidence from resource-constrained settings remains limited. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of LVAT on the mobility, independence, and confidence of visually impaired individuals in a Pakistani rehabilitation setting, and to identify the primary barriers and facilitators to their use. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted at Al-Ibrahim Eye Hospital Karachi. Sixty-five participants with low vision, using assistive devices for at least six months, were recruited through purposive convenience sampling. Data were collected via structured interviews, validated questionnaires including NEI-VFQ, and medical record reviews. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed using SPSS. Results: Magnifiers (38.5%) and canes (33.8%) were the most used LVAT. Post-intervention outcomes showed 100% improvement in independent mobility and street-crossing confidence. However, 58.5% reported technical challenges. Key barriers included cost (43.1%) and lack of awareness (27.7%). Conclusion: LVAT significantly improve mobility and independence in visually impaired individuals, but adoption remains hindered by socioeconomic and infrastructural constraints. Targeted training, subsidies, and public awareness initiatives are essential.