Dynamic vision based on motion-contrast: changes with age in adults

Data are presented for a computerized test of dynamic vision in a sample of 1006 healthy subjects aged between 20 and 85 years. The test employed a form-from-motion stimulus: i.e., within a random-dot display, Landolt rings of the same average luminance as their surroundings become visible only when the dots within the ring are moved briefly, while those of the surround remain stationary. Thus, detection of gap location is based upon motion contrast (form-from-motion) rather than luminance contrast. With the size and exposure duration of the centrally presented ring held constant, motion contrast was manipulated by varying the percentage (between 20 and 100%) of moving dots within the ring. Subjects reported gap location (left, right, top, bottom). A gradual decline of dynamic vision with age was found for all motion-contrast levels. Beyond 70 years of age, chance-level performance occurred in almost half of the subjects. The data provide the basis for applications including diagnostic screening for glaucoma, visual disturbances in brain-damaged patients, as well as assessment: of the dynamic vision of drivers of motor vehicles and athletes.