Effect of vision training on visual function in older adults: A pilot randomized trial

Abstract

Falls among older adults are a major public health concern; however, scientific evidence for interventions that specifically target visual function remains limited. Therefore, this exploratory pilot randomized trial evaluated changes in multiple visual-function outcomes associated with an oculomotor-focused vision training (VT) program in community-dwelling older adults. Thirty community-dwelling older adults (mean age, 73.7 ± 4.8 years) were randomly assigned to a lower-limb strength training group (SLR) or a group with SLR and an additional VT component (SLR + VT). Over 8 weeks, six visual-function components were assessed using the V-training system (eye–hand coordination, visual memory, spatial cognition, peripheral perception, central/peripheral perception, and eye movement). Physical function was assessed using the Timed Up and Go test. For each outcome, ANCOVA was performed with the post-intervention value as the dependent variable, group as the fixed factor, and the corresponding baseline value as a covariate. Baseline-adjusted analyses showed no clear between-group differences in post-intervention visual-function or physical-function outcomes. Several point estimates favored the VT group for outcomes aligned with repeated eye-movement practice, but confidence intervals were wide. In this pilot trial, clear baseline-adjusted differences between the two SLR-based programs, with or without an additional VT component, were not confirmed. Given the small sample size, findings are hypothesis-generating and will inform the design of adequately powered trials with time- and attention-matched control conditions and clinically meaningful endpoints.