Prolonged use of dynamic text presentations for reading with low vision

Abstract

Reading is a primary difficulty for people with visual impairments, and many patients express significant reductions in quality of life as a result. Current solutions to this problem often involve expensive, cumbersome magnification equipment. Reading with a magnifier still typically results in a slow and strenuous reading process that reduces readers' independence and flexibility. This study explores the potential of two dynamic text presentations as alternative reading methods for the visually impaired. Dynamic text displays are easily accessible on affordable, portable devices like tablets and laptops. To assess whether dynamic presentations are feasible for this population, our study employs a within-subjects diary design in which participants with macular degeneration use a tablet to read using each of these methods over three weeks. Subjective data are obtained over the course of the study to assess reader satisfaction using dynamic vs. static text.