Impact of Using Tablet Computer and Smart Phone on Vision Performance In a Group of Visually Impaired Children

Article Info Impact of Using Tablet Computer and Smart Phone on Vision Performance In a Group of Visually Impaired Children Akram Zarei1, Abbas Riazi*2, Javad Heravian Shandiz3, Abdollah Farzaneh 4 1. MSc, Department of Optometry, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran 2. PhD, Senior Lecturer, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. 3. Professor, Department of Optometry, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran 4. PhD Candidate, Department of Optometry, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Background & Objectives: To assess the effect of using tablets and smartphones on visual acuity and vision-related performance in a population of visually impaired children. Methods: 24 children between the ages 4 to 13 years with visual acuity between 20/80 (0.6 Log Mar) to light perception participated in this study. The case group comprised children who scheduled to work with a tablet or smartphone for 2 hours a day for 6 months. The control group received nothing. Near and far vision as well as refraction were measured. Children of the two groups were asked to paint and the duration of painting was recorded. A questionnaire was designed to assess the quality of life the of children. All measurements were repeated 6 months later in both groups. There was no significant difference in vision between the two groups before using a tablet. Parents were also asked to explain any changes that occured in the behaviors of their children. Results: Distant vision in the tablet group was significantly different from the control group (P=0.04) which indicates improvement in visual acuity of the case group with about 0.20 Log Mar compared to the control group. There was 0.20 log Mar better vision in the tablet group in comparison with the control group (P=0.04). Results from the questionnaire showed that in the tablet group, the score was about 14.04 units better than the control group. The time consumption for painting was the same in both groups after 6 months. There was no significant difference in near acuity and refractive errors. Interviews with parents showed improvement in the tablet group in the area of navigation, mobility as well as objects’ recognition. Parents stated that their child performed better in the environment. They had less accidents with objects and individuals. They were more comfortable in walking and using stairs. Conclusion: using tablets and smart phones by visually impaired children can improve distant vision and increase their functionality in performing daily life activities.