The American Academy of Optometry has identified key research gaps and priorities in low vision rehabilitation, technology, accessibility, and education in a new article published in Optometry and Vision Science.¹

The article summarizes findings from the Academy’s third Think Tank, held during its 2024 annual meeting, which brought together 12 experts, including clinicians, vision scientists, computer vision scientists, and educators, to examine current challenges and future directions in low vision research.

The discussion focused on four major areas: low vision services and rehabilitation, technological advances, accessibility, and education and training. Among the priorities identified were advancing multidisciplinary, patient-centered rehabilitation models and evaluating emerging technologies in real-world settings using functional outcomes meaningful to individuals with vision impairment.

The experts emphasized developing integrated, multimodal solutions based on universal design principles to support daily activities, strengthening research and educational resources for children with vision impairment, and promoting collaborative research that translates into improvements in quality of life.

“For millions of people living with vision impairment, the question isn’t what they can see on a chart. It’s whether they can read a prescription bottle, recognize a grandchild’s face, or cross a street safely,” said Carl Spear, OD, Academy president.

Susana Chung, PhD, Think Tank organizer and moderator, emphasized the need for continued investigation and collaboration to address unmet needs among individuals with vision impairment. “We hope that the Think Tank and this resulting paper will serve as catalysts for continued dialogue, increased collaboration, and concerted efforts to address the many critical needs and opportunities in low vision research,” she said.

The article, “American Academy of Optometry Think Tank III: Current Challenges and Future Directions in Low Vision Research," is available to subscribers of Optometry and Vision Science.

Reference

1. Chung STL, Bittner AK, Bowers AR, et al. American Academy of Optometry Think Tank III: current challenges and future directions in low vision research. Optom Vis Sci. 2026;103(11):e70113. doi:10.1002/ovs2.70113