A Demonstration Project on Driving with Reduced Visual Acuity and a Bioptic Telescope System in the Netherlands

Abstract

Background: In Europe, driving a passenger car is prohibited if binocular best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) is below 0.5 (20/40). Some US states allow people with reduced visual acuity to use a bioptic telescope system when driving. The aim of our study is to introduce a bioptic telescope system for driving in the Netherlands and to investigate whether it enables people with reduced visual acuity to gain sufficient practical fitness to drive in a European setting. Results: Out of 378 persons who applied for information following media attention for the project, 160 candidates volunteered to participate. Based on the available information, 36 subjects (binocular BCVA: 0.16–0.5 [20/125–20/40]) were invited for assessment (vision, mobility, cognitive function, and driving skills). Of these, 16 did not meet the inclusion criteria and 2 decided not to participate. The remaining 18 subjects were trained in the use of a monocular bioptic telescope (3× magnification). They all completed the predriving training ...