Virtual reality training for low vision: a safe way to practice street skills?

NCT ID NCT04639531

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tested whether virtual reality (VR) training can teach people with low vision how to cross streets safely. 117 participants were split into three groups: VR training, training with a human instructor on real streets, or watching educational videos. Their street-crossing skills were tested before, right after, and 3 months after training. The goal was to see if VR training works as well as human-led training.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Virtual reality-based orientation and mobility training

What this could lead to

If successful, this could provide a safe, automated way for people with low vision to practice street-crossing skills without going into traffic.

What could go wrong

This is a completed early-stage trial with a modest sample size. The VR training may not be as effective as in-person instruction, and results may not apply to all types of vision loss.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for LOW VISION, BOTH EYES are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Orientation, Spatial Vision, Low

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind

    Talladega, Alabama, 35160, United States

  • University of Alabama at Birmingham

    Birmingham, Alabama, 35226, United States