Computer test may aid vision

A computer-based technique developed by Durham University may help in the visual rehabilitation of people who are partially sighted after a stroke or brain injury.

The study, published in Brain, tested 46 hemianopia patients' visual ability before and after the training and found that they became faster and better at detecting objects, such as coloured dots or numbers.

Lead researcher Dr Alison Lane from Durham's Psychology Department said: 'Although we are not yet sure why this happens, we think it might be because training increases their attention, concentration and awareness of their "blind" field.'

The simple technique was described as a cheap and viable rehabilitation option.