OpticalAging: Real-time Presbyopia Simulation for Inclusive Design via Tunable Lenses

TL;DR

OpticalAging introduces a real-time, tunable lens-based simulation of presbyopia to improve understanding and inclusive design for age-related vision changes, validated through user studies.

Contribution

This paper presents a novel real-time presbyopia simulation using tunable lenses, bridging the gap between abstract knowledge and perceptual experience for inclusive design.

Findings

Significant change in near points across age modes

Increased self-reported understanding among participants

Potential for integration into age-inclusive design workflows

Abstract

Presbyopia, a common age-related vision condition affecting most people as they age, often remains inadequately understood by those unaffected. To help bridge the gap between abstract accessibility knowledge and a more grounded appreciation of perceptual challenges, this study presents OpticalAging, an optical see-through simulation approach. Unlike VR-based methods, OpticalAging uses dynamically controlled tunable lenses to simulate the first-person visual perspective of presbyopia's distance-dependent blur during real-world interaction, aiming to enhance awareness. While acknowledging critiques regarding simulation's limitations in fully capturing lived experience, we position this tool as a complement to user-centered methods. Our user study (N = 19, 18-35 years old) provides validation: quantitative measurements show statistically significant changes in near points across three age modes (40s, 50s, 60s), while qualitative results suggest increases in self-reported understanding and awareness of perceptual challenges among participants. The integration of our tool into a design task showcases its potential applicability within age-inclusive design workflows when used critically alongside direct user engagement.