RECRUITINGINTERVENTIONAL

Factors in Learning And Plasticity: Macular Degeneration

Characterization of Multiple Factors in Training and Plasticity in Central Vision Loss: Macular Degeneration

About This Trial

A greater understanding of plasticity after central vision loss can inform new therapies for treating low vision and has the potential to benefit millions of individuals suffering from low vision. The treatment of low vision is particularly relevant to the mission of the NEI to support research on visual disorders, mechanisms of visual function, and preservation of sight. The comparison of different training and outcome factors is in line with the NIMH RDOC framework and studies in an aging population are consistent with the mission of the NIA.

Who May Be Eligible (Plain English)

Who May Qualify: - Aged 18-89 - Severely impaired vision in both eyes (20/100 or worse) - diagnosis of Macular Degeneration by an Ophthalmologist - Light sensitivity in the macular retina that is at least 10 dB units worse than in peripheral regions, as demonstrated by a scanning laser ophthalmoscope (MAIA) - Medical record review indicating this level of disease severity has been present for at least 2 years - Reside within 50 miles of study site Who Should NOT Join This Trial: - Pacemaker or any ferromagnetic metal implanted in their body - Metal of any type implanted in their head (limited dental work is acceptable) - Claustrophobia - Being hearing-impaired - Weight over 300 pounds - Maximum body girth over 60 inches - Previous serious head injury - Presence of hallucinations or delusions - Excessive old, or colorful tattoos, especially near the head - Pregnancy - Braces/permanent retainer Always talk to your doctor about whether this trial is right for you.

Original Eligibility Criteria

View original clinical language

Inclusion Criteria: * Aged 18-89 * Severely impaired vision in both eyes (20/100 or worse) * diagnosis of Macular Degeneration by an Ophthalmologist * Light sensitivity in the macular retina that is at least 10 dB units worse than in peripheral regions, as demonstrated by a scanning laser ophthalmoscope (MAIA) * Medical record review indicating this level of disease severity has been present for at least 2 years * Reside within 50 miles of study site Exclusion Criteria: * Pacemaker or any ferromagnetic metal implanted in their body * Metal of any type implanted in their head (limited dental work is acceptable) * Claustrophobia * Being hearing-impaired * Weight over 300 pounds * Maximum body girth over 60 inches * Previous serious head injury * Presence of hallucinations or delusions * Excessive old, or colorful tattoos, especially near the head * Pregnancy * Braces/permanent retainer

Treatments Being Tested

BEHAVIORAL

Training visual sensitivity

Investigators adopt a standard PL approach to train early visual processes of discriminating the orientation of Gabor patches presented at threshold contrast. Across training blocks, Gabors will range in spatial frequency, where contrast is adapted with a 3/1 staircase. Whenever a specific contrast threshold is reached, spatial frequency will increase by 2 cycles per degree and contrast will be reset. Preliminary data from this method in normally seeing and MD participants show both feasibility and tentative evidence that this training gives rise to improvements in acuity.

BEHAVIORAL

Combination training

Daily tasks involve a combination of being sensitive to basic visual features, being able to integrate these features, and directing attention and eye movements to better evaluate the information of potential interest. To address this integrative nature of real-world vision, this condition combines elements of training visual sensitivity, spatial integration, and spatial attention.

Locations (1)

UAB

Birmingham, Alabama, United States