iSight Test

I’m continually amazed at what comes out of the app store and I love it when I find an app that makes me think “I would never have thought of using an app for that but what a brilliant idea.” That is exactly what I thought when I received word of iSight Test. This is an app that was designed by eye doctors and can be used to measure eyesight. It can be used at home, schools, clinics, basically anywhere an iDevice can be taken. The app includes tests for adults as well as picture charts so you may test children as young as 18 months old. The iSight Test contains both distance and near letter testing. The near letter testing involves easy to read paragraphs that decrease in font size. The near version of the picture test (this is what you use with pre-readers) will only work on the iPhone and iPod Touch.

If you’re a parent like me and you want to use the test in your home they’ve included easy to follow instructions that will walk you through the test. I was surprised at how easy it was to administer. For example, if you’re testing your toddler and they can identify the picture on the screen you tap yes. If they can’t then you’ll tap no. Your answer will determine the testing results but there’s no guess work. It’s either yes or no. At the end iSight Test provides an interpretation of the results and offers a recommendation of whether or not follow up is needed with an eye doctor. Some of the terminology in the interpretation was unfamiliar to me but I was able to get the general idea of the results.

If you’re concerned about your child’s eyesight then this is an app that could provide peace of mind or information for your optometrist. I see the strength of this app in it’s portability and the potential it provides for caregivers and professionals who need to be able to diagnose and assist those who are unable to make it into clinics.

$12.99 is expensive for an app but on the other hand it is less than what I spent the last time my children visited the optometrist. The app is universal so it was designed to for both the iPad and iPhone/iPod Touch. I mentioned earlier that the near version of the picture test will only work on the iPhone/iPod. This doesn’t mean you need to purchase a separate app but it won’t show up on your iPad. My last thought for the developers is this – perhaps consider trimming down the app for a “parents only” version, include only the Kay Picture Test and charge a little less for the app.

My final thought – a fantastic idea that has the potential to benefit a great number of people.

Price when Reviewed: $12.99

See the app in iTunes

Seller: Kay Pictures, Ltd.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this app for review purposes.