Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility of iPad for visual impairment by utilizing the magnification functions on the iPad compared to conventional optical magnifier when looking at near object. Methods: 18 participants (9 males and 9 females, 42 through to 71 years of age, with a mean age of 63.2 ± 12.3 years.)were asked to perform timed tasks of viewing bills and photographs to find the certain information. They were then asked to compare between their optical aid and the iPad in terms of comfort, ease of use and clarity when viewing bills and photographs. Results: Participants spent significantly less time completing the tasks when using their own optical magnifiers compared to the iPad (p<0.01). In the photograph viewing task, optical aids were perceived to be significantly clearer than the iPad (p=0.02). Conclusion: Overall, the iPad were not shown to be significantly more comfortable or offer more visual clarity when compared to traditional optical magnifying systems. Conversely, we also could not show that the iPad is any worse than traditional optical magnifying systems. Due to the likely benefits of training on the outcome, the iPad may have great potential as a low vision aid, but it may also need additional accessory such as stand for better image stabilization.

• Byoung-Sun Chu(Dept. of Optometry & Vision Science, Catholic University of Daegu)
• Jung-bok Kim(Dept. of Optometry & Vision Science, Catholic University of Daegu)