Feasibility of telerehabilitation to address the orientation and mobility needs of individuals with visual impairment: perspectives of current guide dog users

Abstract

Orientation and Mobility (O&M) training, including guide dog services, is crucial for individuals with low vision and blindness to attain independent travel. While teleassistance has proven effective for navigation and communication, telerehabilitation in O&M remains unexplored.

Objective

To assess guide dog users’ perspectives on the feasibility of telerehabilitation for their O&M needs.

Method

An online survey gathered insights from 56 guide dog (GD) users (Mean age = 59, Mean GD used = 4, Mean duration of use = 22 years). Thirteen GD users further participated in interviews or focus groups to explore survey responses. Data were analyzed using content analysis.

Findings

Most (40) were blind, and 16 had low vision, with intermediate (25) and advanced (25) communication technology proficiency. Most GD users (46) underwent residential training, and 10 received one-on-one visits. Qualitative analysis revealed acceptance of telerehabilitation services, citing accessibility as an advantage. However, GD users expressed concerns about safety, potential loss of behavioral observation, and social contact loss. Success depended on the type of technology, service type, and personal attributes.

Conclusion

While feasible, telerehabilitation services may not be universally suitable for all training stages. Flexibility and applicability in service design are necessary to accommodate individual preferences and experience levels.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

1. Telerehabilitation of Orientation & Mobility (O&M) services for individuals that are blind or have low vision potentially offers a hybrid service delivery mode, reducing wait time and travel costs.

2. A remote O&M service offer could allow rehabilitation professionals to provide services across borders, to rural and remote regions, and reach a broader client base.

3. Rehabilitation professionals should collaborate with technology companies to improve remote rehabilitation service delivery and address clients’ concerns.

4. Rehabilitation professionals should ensure that their approach to utilizing this telerehabilitation services is flexible and patient-centered, accommodating the client’s need for in-person services.

Keywords:

• Telerehabilitation
• guide dog
• low vision
• blindness
• assistive technology
• mobility

Acknowledgements

We acknowledge the support of the research team, our participants, and the local partner members - the Institut Nazareth et Louis-Braille du Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de la Montérégie-Centre, the Centre de réadaptation Lethbridge-Layton-Mackay du Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux du Centre-Ouest-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, the Fondation Mira, and the Regroupement des aveugles et amblyopes du Québec for their support in the execution of this study.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This study was funded by the Québec Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux.