Article

The usability of assistive technologies depends, in part, on the user's
ability to manipulate the device. In the context of aging and visual impairment,
the visibility of any device and its components becomes crucial, and often users
rely on tactile information in order to overcome visibility barriers. The purpose
of this study was to establish performance norms for older adults with low vision
on a common measure of manual dexterity: the Purdue Pegboard Test. Method The
Purdue Pegboard was completed visually with the dominant, non-dominant and both
hands by 134 older adults (age 60-97) with various levels of low vision, ranging
from 20/30 to 20/604 in the better eye. Results Scores decreased significantly as
age increased. In addition, performance using the dominant hand was generally
best. Compared to previously published values, scores were lower than the norms
for healthy older adults as well as those for younger visually impaired
individuals. Conclusions The present values for older adults with low vision add
to the already existing standards and allow for comparison among future studies
with this population. Systematic examination of manual dexterity in low vision
clients will enable rehabilitation specialists to make more informed
recommendations in terms of usable low-vision devices. Implications for
rehabilitation Older adults with visual impairment often rely on tactile cues
when using assistive devices. The Purdue Pegboard provides a systematic
evaluation of manual dexterity, whereby age norms exist for older adults and for
visually impaired younger adults. We present normative data on the Purdue
Pegboard test for older adults with low vision in order to facilitate comparison
of performance. Systematic evaluation of manual dexterity will inform whether
some assistive devices are suitable for older adults with a visual impairment.

Langue : ANGLAIS