VISIBLE is a multisite randomised controlled trial of early vision-aware and parent-directed environmental enrichment program. The study aims to determine the feasibility and acceptability of the VISIBLE intervention program and evaluate the efficacy of the VISIBLE program to lead to greater improvements of visual function, developmental outcomes and parent-infant emotional and relational development, as compared to standard care. Thirty-two infants with cerebral visual impairment will be recruited through neonatal follow-up programs and early detection networks in Pisa (Italy), Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia and then randomised into one of two groups, VISIBLE or standard care. VISIBLE-trained developmental therapists provide parent training, information and demonstration of appropriate activities for the infant either in the family home or via telehealth. Infants are then assessed at 12 months corrected-age on a range of measures including vision, cognitive and motor outcomes. Recently a series of nine parent booklets were designed and given to parents in the VISIBLE group to provide information based on the needs of the infant and the family. Currently seven infants have been recruited in Queensland through the QEDIN-CP (Queensland Early Detection and Intervention Network – Cerebral Palsy), with a further two infants currently being assessed for eligibility in Townsville.
Contact Details: Dr Tracey Evans, VISIBLE Clinical Research Coordinator, (07) 3069 7365, QCPRRC@uq.edu.au.
This project is funded by Cerebral Palsy Alliance.
Chief Investigators: Prof. Roslyn Boyd, Prof. Andrea Guzzetta, Prof. Iona Novak, Dr Cathy Morgan, Dr Alison Salt, Prof. Cath Elliott, Prof. Glen Gole, Dr Swetha Philip, Prof. Nadia Badawi, Prof. Stephen Rose, Dr Jurgen Fripp, Dr Kerstin Pannek, Dr Susan Greaves, Dr Roslyn Ward, Professor Rodney Hunt, Prof. Russell Dale, A/Professor James Elder, Jessica Tibbs, Anya Gordon, Dr Lizelle Weber, Dr Margot Bosanquet, Dr Marnie Fraser, Dr Peter Schmidt, Dr James Smith, Ms Katie Geering.
