Attention seeker

Such conditions can be diagnosed and treated if loss of vision can be detected.

The so-called KidzEyez device is aimed at replacing perimetry systems for testing the field of vision of children between one and five years old, as well as older children and adults with learning difficulties.

The system was developed by Dr Adar Pelah of York University and Dr Louise Allen, a paediatric ophthalmologist at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, in response to concerns that children in this age bracket cannot concentrate on perimetry systems.

These devices use a hemisphere studded with LED lights that are placed in front of the patient. The lights either move inwards until the patient can see them, or flash on and off to detect whether a patient reacts to the change.

Pelah said: ‘Kids get bored quickly and aren’t really interested in the flashing LED lights used in perimetry devices. Rather than having spots of light going on and off, we’ve developed an augmented reality that we believe will keep the child’s attention for longer.’