There's An APP For That: The Visually Impaired And Mobile Phone.

Background: Visual impairment is life-changing. There are over 285 million visually
impaired people worldwide. In the United States alone, 20.6 million adults have
reported experiencing vision loss. The dramatic advancement of technology has the
capacity to create many solutions for those with visual impairment. Mobile phone and
tablet applications have made an astounding impact on the daily lives of those with
vision loss. This study is a review of the various kinds of apps available as well as a
comparison of the effectiveness and usability of these assistive technologies.
Methods: Over the academic year of 2014-2015 information was compiled about the
available applications for the visually impaired. The apps were classified, and their
usability and effectiveness were determined through trial and consumer reviews. To
standardize the evaluation, a point-based rubric was created to assess each app. The
search for applications was conducted through the two main application stores for the
iPhone and Android systems using keywords associated with visual impairment.
Results: Various apps were analyzed based on cost, consumer reviews, and the
reviewer’s opinion of usability and functionality. Apps from the Magnifying and
Navigation classifications proved to be most valuable.
Conclusions: The profession of optometry and standard of care for patients with vision impairment has changed dramatically over the years with the advancement of technology. Mobile phone applications made specifically for those with vision loss can increase quality of life and provide a new facet of low vision rehabilitation care in optometry.