Gamification of Visual Function Assessment using Virtual Reality

Eye related disorders are increasing rapidly in the recent times and it is difficult for the patients to visit the clinic frequently for regular testing and reach out to the clinician in person especially during pandemic times. Hence, there is a need in developing a home-based Visual function assessment test for the patients and motivate for frequent testing for the progression of their visual disorder. This study outcome would enable the patients to test their Visual functions, Visual Acuity and Visual Field using Virtual Reality through gamification to induce motivation to play more and get tested frequently through attention and enjoyment. Considering the adult population, we design home based portable gamified eye tests in VR in order to extend it as an alternative to conventional testing at clinics with possible similar accuracy. Gamification may also enhance motivation and attention in adults; increasing the test accuracy as per the literature discussed. Hence, we test the population between 18-65 years.

Detailed description of procedure / processes: The study (minimal risk) will recruit 34 healthy vision participants with corrected-to-normal visual acuity or normal visual acuity and normal or near to normal visual fields with healthy eyes from the Dept. of Optometry at MCHP & MIT, Manipal and are pre-screened (by asking) for past eye, neurological disorders that would affect Visual function and are excluded. The participants are voluntarily recruited based on their interests by approaching them individually in the institute. The participants are then subjected to the gamified and non-gamified test (approx. 20 mins) versions in VR using Quest 2 and are instructed how to use and wear it. The results are noted down to test the accuracy obtained for visual function and later the participants are asked to describe their experience and rate the questionnaires. The participants are required to visit the clinic only once and no subsequent visits are needed. Principal Investigator along with the help of faculty from Dept. of Optometry will be carrying out the screening. The correlation is made to compare VR test accuracy with the gold standards and questionnaires ratings will be given to understand gamification effects.

Outcome measures: The research proposes a gamified visual function test in Virtual Reality. As an outcome of the study, the visual function testing can be taken at the comfort of the patient’s home through VR headset. Gamification would make the visual function testing enjoyable who lacks attention and motivation. Through frequent testing patients and clinicians will understand the progression of visual function which is difficult to realize in the initial stage.