Simulating Central Vision Loss for Multisensory Navigation in Virtual Environments

Low vision is a prevalent health issue that restricts individuals’ accessibility to virtual reality technology due to reduced visual input. In this study, we developed a low vision simulation to model central vision loss, a symptom of eye conditions like macular degeneration. Participants completed a navigation task using both visual and self-motion cues under normal and simulated low vision conditions. Results indicate that simulated central vision loss alters sensory cue use in navigation. These preliminary findings highlight the potential of low vision simulations for future research, including simulating different types or amounts of vision loss and aligning simulations with the experiences of people living with low vision.