Research Presentation Report at World Physiotherapy Congress 2025

Prof. Yasuaki Kusumoto from Fukushima Medical University presented his research on Changes in Visual Function by a Game Intervention using a Gaze-based Input Sensor in Elementary School Life on May 30th, 2025 at World Physiotherapy Congress 2025. 

Research Background and Objectives

This study aimed to assess the impact of a gaze-based input  of the Tobii Eye Tracker-based application developed by Digireha, Inc. on visual function, attention, and social skills in four primary school children (aged 8 to 10) who experience difficulties in learning and daily school life, despite having no formal neurodevelopmental disorder diagnoses.

Methods

Participants engaged with the application for 10 to 15 minutes, once or twice weekly, over a six-month period during school hours. The app was designed to improveeye-gaze control, with a gaze-tracking sensor used to monitor performance.
The study employed five assessment tools:

• Eye Movement Test (to assess gaze control and coordination)
• SDQ (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire)
• VSPCL (Vision-related Symptoms and Performance Checklist)
• TMT-A (Trail Making Test A) for attention function

Results

Children demonstrated notable improvements in visual activities, including fixation stability, spatial awareness, and reading/writing skills. Two participants showed reduced task completion time in the TMT-A, suggesting enhanced attention and processing speed. Additionally, one child exhibited improvements in emotional regulation and peer interaction, as reported in the SDQ results.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that consistent use of gaze-based interactive games can enhance visual and attentional functions, as well as social skills, in children experiencing school-related challenges. This study highlights the potential of eye-input technologies as an inclusive support tool for both diagnosed and undiagnosed children with functional difficulties.

Feedback from Researchers at the Congress

Prof. Kusumoto emphasized that the study demonstrated the value of the Digireha Dashboard system in visualizing and analyzing developmental data for children with special needs. Japanese participants expressed strong interest in visual function assessment, reinforcing the growing attention to visual health in school age populations.