Optimal reading speed in simulated cataract: development of a potential vision test

Previous studies suggest that optimal reading speed is unaffected by catara ct, yet is significantly reduced in age-related macular disease. This raise s the question of whether a reading speed test could be developed to assess potential vision after cataract surgery. In this study, 20 young subjects, with and without a simulation of dense cataract, read aloud Bailey-Lovie w ord charts. From the results, critical print size, optimal reading speed an d word acuity were calculated, The simulated cataract reduced word acuity a nd increased the critical print size, yet optimal reading speed remained un changed. Measurements were also taken with the charts in reversed contrast polarity. Reversing the contrast polarity of the charts improved the word a cuity and optimal reading speed with the cataract simulation. The results s uggest that optimal reading speed could be used as a potential vision test. Further investigations using patients with cataract and ARMD are required. (C) 2001 The College of Optometrists, Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. A ll rights reserved.