Fall Risk Assessment: Development of a Paradigm to Measure Multifocal Eyeglass Effects

ABSTRACT

This pilot study was designed to investigate the effects of multifocal lens eyeglasses on functional vision and gait on a middle-aged population (40–59). This study was designed to increase the understanding of how eyeglasses contributed to an increased rate of falling, as found in an older population by Lord, Dayhew & Howland (2002). Components of the Lord et al. (2002) study were replicated with middle-aged participants, with the addition of using a modified Dynamic Gait Index. Significant differences were found in depth perception between multifocal and single distance lens eyeglass wearers. Differences were not found in contrast sensitivity, functional gait, or falls. However, analyses found differences in vision within multifocal wearers' upper and lower lens regions. Researchers theorize that multifocal wearers learn to ignore the distorted visual information in the lower region, leading to increased fall risk. Younger adults may be able to compensate for distorted visual information via other body systems.

KEYWORDS. :

• Risk of falling
• assistive technology
• multifocal eyeglasses

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Abby Brayton-Chung, MS, OTR, is an Occupational Therapist with the Learning Prep School in West Newton, MA. Dennis Tomashek, MS, is an Associate Researcher at the R₂D₂ Center. Roger O. Smith, PhD, OT, FAOTA, RESNA Fellow is Director of the Rehabilitation Research Design & Disability (R₂D₂) Center and Professor of Occupational Sciences & Technology at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.