THE ROLE OF EMERGING TECHNOLOGY as it relates to the practice of optometry is extremely promising, specifically in the areas of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Whereas VR allows for a closed, controlled environment, AR enables specific information to be overlaid upon and interact with the open world – and both technologies engage the vision and the brain in a manner that potentially makes them very useful to optometrists, their patients and optometric educators. We are beginning to see that potential grow continuously as innovators find new ways to expand the practice of optometry.
The VR space has evolved quickly, as headsets such as Oculus can be utilized to expand the diagnostic capabilities of optometrists at a significant reduction in expense to the optometrist. One of the first implementations of this technology involved performing visual field tests, trading the footprint of a large, expensive machine for a device that matches the results of the tried-and-true method. Similarly, VR headsets are being developed that can measure a patient for their prescription glasses with great precision.
One of the other unique ways optometrists are employing VR technology is with vision therapy, both for traumatic brain injury rehabilitation as well as for vision therapy. Software in the VR headset can be employed to treat amblyopia, and the tech has application within binocular vision training as well as visual perception training. Optometrists can work with patients on binocular skills, anti-suppression skills and ocular motor training. It’s important to note that – particularly in the context of vision therapy – this is but one tool an optometrist can have in the toolbox. Some children may be intrigued by the prospect of using a VR headset in their therapy, while others may find it bulky, heavy or uncomfortable.
Augmented reality seems so far like a promising tool for optometrists in the treatment of patients with low vision or limited vision. Smartphones and tablets can already employ the technology in different ways, and devices such as AR-enabled glasses or lenses can be utilized to help an individual with low vision actually see. They assist the user in interpreting their surroundings, enabling them to see bus stop signs or labels in a grocery store, for example, and empowering them in different ways while they manage their condition. And it’s not just low vision; AR-enabled devices can help people with disorders such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and even color-blindness.
Advertisement
As educators, we are particularly excited about the ways virtual reality can be used as a learning tool for training current and future optometrists. First of all, we can extend innovations in the field of optometry to every area of the globe that is connected to the internet. Optometrists in remote places who may not have access to costly medical technologies can utilize VR to learn and train themselves on the latest and the greatest procedures and techniques. VR also allows for greater skill development as well as skill transfer. Working in that virtual 3D space allows an optometrist to rehearse that skill set and to develop the manual dexterity, as well as the confidence, to perform said procedures. The element of extremely realistic practice that VR allows is beneficial to optometry schools, where students can obtain extra repetitions on the core methods of optometric practice in a safe environment. In this way, any mistakes they make are essentially harmless, and when they meet their first human subject, they have already become proficient in their techniques many times.
With new technologies, there is always a certain amount of natural resistance, particularly when these technologies might be replacing or augmenting methods that have long been proven to be effective and accurate. And our profession is one in which most of its members take pride in the human connection – an aspect that evolving technology doesn’t always seem to preserve. However, we believe one of the most significant advantages to embracing virtual and augmented reality in our field is how it can help enhance human connection. These technologies can help us better serve patients with different disabilities and can help us more clearly communicate with patients where language barriers might otherwise represent an obstacle. The closed and comfortable environment these technologies enable opens up exciting possibilities for us to bring the best care possible to our patients!
About the Authors
Dr. Mark Nakano is the Associate Dean of Clinics at the Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University. With more than three decades of experience, he has led clinical education, private practice, and over 40 clinical trials in optometry. A recognized leader in advancing the profession, Dr. Nakano played a key role in the passage of California Assembly Bill 443, expanding the scope of optometric practice, and was named the California Optometric Association’s Keyperson of the Year in 2025.
Dr. Raymond Chu is a faculty member at the Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University, where he also completed his residency in Pediatric Optometry and Vision Therapy. A Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and Diplomate in the Optometric Education Section, Dr. Chu specializes in pediatric vision, binocular vision, and myopia research. He has lectured nationally on pediatric optometry and continues to focus on advancing clinical education and research in the field.
