GETTING TO KNOW EACH OTHER – Natalina Martiniello et al. | January 18, 2021
When: 18 January 2021 12:00 to 18 January 2021 13:00
Where: Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87093167936 or by phone 438-809-7799 | Meeting ID: 87093167936
Natalina Martiniello, Doctoral Student1,2
Academic supervisor : Walter Wittich2
”Exploring predictors of braille reading performance among working-age and older adults with acquired visual impairment”
Objectives: The prevalence of vision loss will double in Canada over the next 30 years, placing new burdens on vision rehabilitation services. We explored predictors of braille reading performance among adults and seniors with acquired visual impairment and the effect of age on these factors, in order to understand the unique needs of older braille clients. Methods: The tactile, motor and cognitive abilities and braille reading speeds of 45 participants between the ages of 23 and 88 were collected. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations and multiple regressions were computed. Results: Decreasing tactile, motor and cognitive abilities correlated with advancing age among all participants; However, braille learning age, frequency of braille usage, and active tactile acuity emerged as the best predictors of braille reading speed. Conclusion: Braille is a complex task that draws on multiple factors effected by age. Implications for supporting the unique needs of aging braille clients will be discussed.
Maxime Bleau, Master’s Student2
Academic supervisors: Maurice Ptito2 et Walter Wittich2
”Three-dimensional printing as a rehabilitation tool for individuals with deafblindness”
Objectives: Deafblindness significantly impacts many life domains such as access to information, communication and mobility. There is a constant need for the development of new assistive technologies to improve social participation and quality of life of people living with deafblindness. Since touch is their main gateway for communication and information, 3D printing is a promising rehabilitation technology with its capacity of producing customized and low-cost tangible objects. This scoping review study aims to synthesize evidence on the practices involving 3D printing as a rehabilitation tool and to inform professionals and caregivers on how this technology may enhance their quality of life. Methods: To do so, a comprehensive search in eight databases is being conducted. Results: Preliminary results have identified 8 studies involving 3D printing as a tool to produce communication devices and to empower professionals, along with other “do-it-yourself” technologies, in producing their own material. However, few testing and validation with deafblind participants has been performed or shown.
Atul Jaiswal, Postdoctoral Fellow1,3
Academic supervisor: Walter Wittich2,3
”Cognitive functioning in older adults with concurrent hearing and vision impairment”
Objectives & Methods: Though the evidence is emerging on the association between uni-sensory impairment and cognitive decline, the link between cognitive functioning and combined sensory decline (vision & hearing) is less well understood. For accurate screening of cognitive ability in older adults with concurrent hearing and vision impairment (referred to as dual sensory impairment/DSI), it is imperative to understand the consequences of DSI on the cognitive functioning of older adults. To date, no comprehensive review exists on cognitive functioning in older adults with DSI. The objective of this scoping review is to synthesize evidence on cognitive functioning in older adults with DSI and summarize what is known aboutthe prevalence, incidence and risk factors of cognitive decline in this population. The search was conducted in six scientific databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Global Health, PsycINFO, and Web of Science). Implications for clinical practice and future research in the area of cognitive functioning in older adults with DSI will be discussed.
1School of Optometry, Université de Montréal
2CRIR–Lethbridge-Layton-Mackay Rehabilitation Center, CIUSSS West-Central Montreal
3CRIR– Institut Nazareth et Louis-Braille, CISSS de la Montérégie-Centre, School of Optometry, Université de Montréal
Registration required, before January 15, 2021: https://fr.surveymonkey.com/r/56XYK95
French and English Presentations
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