Eye Movements and Visual Contrast Sensitivity in Individuals with Down Syndrome: A Model for the Rational Design of Assistive Technologies for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities

Alberto Costa acc@eri.uchsc.edu

Oculomotor function (eye movements) in people with Down Syndrome was recorded by binocularvideo-oculography; an LCD projector produced visual stimulation and a servo-controlled rotarychair produced vestibular stimulation.

Both the optokinetic and vestibular systems seem to be affected in individuals with DownSyndrome. These experiments should help researchers understand how the brain of persons with DownSyndrome and other cognitive disabilities respond to visual stimuli.