What is CVI?
Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is the most common cause of visual impairment in children in economically developed countries. CVI occurs when parts of the brain that process vision are not working typically. CVI can cause visual perception difficulties that make learning difficult for the majority of children affected. Simple changes can be transformative for these children, but the affected children need to be identified first.
1 child in every class may have CVI
3.4% of children in mainstream education have CVI-related issues
80% of children with CVI may struggle with learning
A validated screening tool for CVI related visual issues
For the first time, through a fun app, taking only a few minutes to complete, with the results immediately available, we can identify these children.
Two versions of the Austin Assessment app are available. For personal use, for example a family who may suspect a child is affected by CVI, there is The Austin Assessment App. For professionals who may want to screen larger groups, including for research, there is the Austin Assessment Pro App for Professionals.
Get the Austin Assessment App
Two versions of the Austin Assessment app are available. For personal use, for example a family who may suspect a child is affected by CVI, there is The Austin Assessment App. For professionals who may want to screen larger groups, including for research, there is the Austin Assessment Pro App for Professionals.
Get the Austin Assessment App
Dr Nicola McDowell is the creator and founder of the Austin Assessment. Nicola has CVI herself.
When Nicola McDowell was 16 years old, she suffered a massive brain haemorrhage. She survived but her vision, and her life, was never the same. It took 17 years for Nicola to get her CVI diagnosis. She created the Austin Assessment so no child ever has to wait that long to get the help they need.
How the tool works
The Austin Assessment app is a fun and simple card matching game that anyone can download and use. Designed for children, the game is fun to play and helps children, their parents and professionals to understand how their vision works, so they can get the help they need to thrive.
Learn more about how the app works
See our results page for information on what to do if you have a positive result, or if you have a negative result you were not expecting.
CVI is a common but often undiagnosed condition that children around the world struggle with. Diagnosis can be costly and hard to get.
Learn more about how the app works
See our results page for information on what to do if you have a positive result, or if you have a negative result you were not expecting.
CVI is a common but often undiagnosed condition that children around the world struggle with. Diagnosis can be costly and hard to get.
Testimonials
“I always felt dumb. So it was a big relief to find out that there’s an actual reason for that, that I’m not just not smart. It’s just made me a lot happier.”
“It is a unique test. Nothing like it has ever been invented.”
“The Austin Assessment has made me, as a parent, much more aware of how much effort it takes for her to be able to see.”
Our partners and sponsors
Get the app today
Download the iPhone and iPad app for personal or professionals.
