Exploring Functional Vision Tests in Early Dementia: Comparative Sensitivity and Clinical Implications with Dr. Marsha Benshir

Description

Dr. Marsha Davis Benshir will present preliminary findings from her ongoing research comparing three functional vision tests—Developmental Eye Movement (DEM), Davis Visual Scan, and Directional Pegs—in patients with early dementia.

Initial data from one patient indicate the Davis Visual Scan provides greater sensitivity in detecting perceptual-motor impairment compared to the other tests. Future phases will include assessments with non-demented seniors to establish baseline patterns, followed by potential studies within a local nursing home population.

Building upon foundational work initiated in the 1980s, Dr. Davis Benshir also incorporates Piaget-type observational methods to analyze functional and cognitive changes in individuals with known diagnoses. Her work aims to expand understanding of the visual-perceptual aspects of dementia and the potential for targeted interventions even amidst ongoing neurocognitive decline.

This lecture will include:

• Overview of test methodologies and comparative findings to date
• Discussion of observational approaches and theoretical foundations
• Implications for clinical screening and rehabilitation in dementia care