Self-motion illusions from distorted optic flow in multifocal glasses

Progressive addition lenses (PALs) are ophthalmic lenses to correct presbyopia by providing improvements of near and far vision in different areas of the lens, but distorting the periphery of the wearer's field of view. Distortion-related difficulties reported by PAL wearers include unnatural self-motion perception. Visual self-motion perception is guided by optic flow, the pattern of retinal motion produced by self-motion. We tested the influence of PAL distortions on optic flow-based heading estimation using a model of heading perception and a virtual reality-based psychophysical experiment. The model predicted changes of heading estimation along a vertical axis, depending on visual field size and gaze direction. Consistent with this prediction, participants experienced upwards deviations of self-motion when gaze through the periphery of the lens was simulated, but not for gaze through the center. We conclude that PALs may lead to illusions of self-motion which could be remedied by a careful gaze strategy.

Automated summary

Progressive addition lenses (PALs) are eyeglasses used to correct presbyopia and improve vision, but they may distort the wearer's peripheral vision and result in illusions of self-motion. A study found that when looking through the periphery of the lens, participants experienced upward deviations of self-motion, while there was no such effect when looking through the center of the lens.