Academy Think Tank Highlights Critical Gaps and Future Priorities in Low Vision Research

Wednesday, November 11 2026 | 13 h 39 min | News

The American Academy of Optometry is drawing attention to key gaps and opportunities in low vision research following the publication of findings from its third Think Tank, held during the Academy’s 2024 Annual Meeting.

The findings, published in the November issue of Optometry and Vision Science, focus on four priority areas: low vision services and rehabilitation, technological advances in low vision, accessibility, and education and training.

The initiative brought together 12 experts from diverse fields, including clinical optometry, vision science, computer vision and education, to examine current challenges and identify future research priorities aimed at improving outcomes for individuals living with vision impairment.

Focusing on function and quality of life

According to Academy President Dr. Carl Spear, low vision research must focus on how vision impairment affects daily living rather than solely on clinical measurements.

“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 Dr. Spear.

He noted that the Think Tank emphasized research that can improve real-world function and quality of life, while fostering collaboration among clinicians, researchers and educators to ensure scientific discoveries translate into meaningful patient care.

Key priorities for future research

The published paper identifies several areas where additional research and collaboration are needed, including:

• Advancing multidisciplinary, patient-centred models of low vision rehabilitation.
• Evaluating emerging technologies in real-world settings using outcomes that matter to patients with vision impairment.
• Developing integrated, multimodal solutions based on universal design principles to support activities of daily living.
• Strengthening research and educational support for children living with vision impairment.
• Expanding collaborative research efforts that lead to measurable improvements in quality of life.

Building momentum for future collaboration

Think Tank organizer and moderator Dr. Susana Chung said the Academy’s decision to focus on low vision reflects a recognition that substantial work remains to better understand and address the needs of people with vision impairment.

“I am deeply grateful to the Academy for selecting low vision research as the focus of its third Think Tank,” said Dr. Chung. “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.”

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

The Academy says the publication is intended to help guide future research, education and clinical initiatives aimed at improving the lives of individuals with vision impairment.

Source: American Academy of Optometry

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