| Sumario: | Background: Improving adherence to glaucoma management requires thorough and accurate patient education. Patient education can take many forms. This study informs on the effect simulation goggles may have on the understanding of how glaucomatous visual loss can impact many tasks. Effective methods to increase patient adherence to glaucoma management will reduce vision loss. The aim of this study was to use simulation goggles to demonstrate glaucomatous vision loss and to show the impact on the subjects' shortterm intentions for glaucoma compliance. Methods: Twenty-six subjects aged 50-70 with glaucoma participated. Each subject wore goggles that simulated glaucomatous vision loss while performing everyday tasks. Prior to simulation goggle intervention, all subjects completed the Glaucoma Activity Limitation (GAL-9) questionnaire and answered questions regarding baseline knowledge of glaucoma visual impact. These questions were repeated following the intervention. Results: There was a statistically significant increase in mean GAL-9 score with simulator goggles (29.81±5.3) compared to baseline (15.04±5.2). When asked to respond to glaucoma knowledge questions, correct answers regarding peripheral vision loss increased by 30.8%, blurry vision increased by 26.9%, and loss of contrast sensitivity increased by 34.6%. After the intervention, the percentage of subjects who responded that they now understood glaucoma well increased by 26.9%, and 100% of subjects reported that the activity increased their awareness of potential vision loss due to untreated glaucoma. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that this level of vision loss simulated in the goggles can properly impact visual function. This study also demonstrates that experiential knowledge gained through vision simulation goggles has the potential to increase knowledge about glaucoma, as well as potential intention for short-term compliance with glaucoma management.
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