Use of the UFOV to evaluate and retrain visual attention skills in clients with stroke: a pilot study

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this pilot study was to examine the use of a visual attention analyzer in the evaluation and retraining of useful field of view in clients with stroke.

Method: Fifty-two clients with stroke referred to a driving evaluation service were evaluated with a visual attention analyzer referred to as the UFOV. The UFOV assesses three aspects of visual attention: processing speed, divided attention, and selective attention. Seven participants were retested to determine the test-retest reliability of the UFOV. Six participated in the development of a training protocol and in a 20-session visual attention retraining program.

Results: UFOV scores indicated substantial reduction in visual attention in clients after stroke, with older participants performing the most poorly. Test-retest reliability was moderate (ICC = .70). Mean UFOV scores improved significantly after retraining.

Conclusion: Although UFOV scores indicated poor visual attention skills in clients with stroke, preliminary information suggests that UFOV scores significantly improve with training.