New RP Project - Optimising visual function in people with RP

Background information

RP (retinitis pigmentosa) is one of the most common causes of severely impaired vision. In Norway, it is assumed that the target group is around 1,500 people, but there is no register of this. A large proportion of users of services from Eikholt (National Resource Centre for the Deafblind) are in the target group. This is partly due to the fact that the group diagnosis Usher represents approximately 60% of the users. Of users under the age of 70, people with RP are a large and important user group of the services provided by Hurdal Vision and Coping Centre (Norwegian Association of the Blind).

About the project

The project will map out how some relevant measures can optimise visual function for people with RP. The measures will target some typical problems resulting from RP. These are:

• Measures in area 1: Narrowed field of vision (tunnel vision)
• Measures in area 2: Reduced vision in low light (night blindness)
• Measures in area 3: Glare and light sensitivity

These include new rules for the allocation of filter glasses, new assistive devices and new methods for compensating for a restricted field of vision. During the project period, knowledge will be built up by testing the aforementioned measures on a selection of project participants who have RP.

16 participants will be involved in the project, 8 people with RP and 8 people with Usher. Since the aim of the project is to build knowledge about good measures, the recruitment of project participants will emphasise finding participants who are motivated and committed. The participants' own expertise will be strengthened in the project and provide new knowledge from the trials with the various measures.

The aim is to achieve tangible results during the project period that have practical significance for the target group.

The project is supported by the Retinitis Pigmentosa Association and the Norwegian Association of the Blind Research Fund.

If you have any questions about the project, please contact Project Manager Rolf Lund by e-mail rolf.lund@eikholt.no