A comparison of reading, in people with simulated and actual central vision loss, with static text, horizontally scrolling text, and rapid serial visual presentation

Reading with central vision loss (CVL), as caused by macular disease, may be enhanced by presenting text using dynamic formats such as horizontally scrolling text or rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP). The rationale for these dynamic text formats is that they can be read while holding gaze away from the text, potentially supporting reading while using the eccentric viewing strategy. This study was designed to evaluate the practice of reading with CVL, with passages of text presented as static sentences, horizontal scrolling sentences, or as single word RSVP. In separate studies, normally sighted participants with a simulated (artificial) central scotoma, controlled by an eye-tracker, or participants with CVL resulting from macular degeneration, read passages of text using the eccentric viewing technique. Comprehension was better overall with scrolling text when reading with a simulated CVL, while RSVP produced lower overall comprehension and high error rates. Analysis of eye movement behaviour showed that participants consistently adopted a strategy of making multiple horizontal saccades on the text itself. Adherence to using eccentric viewing was better with RSVP, but this did not translate into better reading performance. Participants with macular degeneration, and an actual CVL, also showed the highest comprehension and lowest error rates with scrolling text, and the lowest comprehension and highest errors with RSVP. We conclude that scrolling text can support effective reading in people with central vision loss and has potential as a reading aid.