Assessing the clinical feasibility of the EyeFocus app
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Assessing the clinical feasibility of the EyeFocus app for attention rehabilitation in ABI
IRAS ID
349885
Contact name
Stephanie Rossit
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of East Anglia
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 31 days
Research summary
An acquired brain injury (ABI) can disrupt the brain’s ability to process information, sometimes causing “neglect,” a condition where individuals lose awareness of one side of their body or environment. Neglect affects about one in three ABI survivors and is linked to poor recovery and long-term disability. Survivors describe it as frightening, reporting frequent collisions and limited support. Although healthcare staff follow national stroke guidelines, no effective treatment for neglect currently exists. Patients, carers, and NHS staff have highlighted the urgent need for research into therapies that improve how the brain interprets information, especially for neglect.
Early research shows that training patients to look toward the affected side using fast-moving visual stimuli can reduce neglect. However, existing approaches require lengthy daily clinic sessions with a therapist, limiting accessibility. To address this, we co-designed a new therapy called EyeFocus, a tablet-based app that delivers personalised visual training at home without constant therapist supervision. Initial home trials with three stroke survivors were promising: participants found the app easy to use, and one regained the confidence to resume driving, saying it “gave him his life back.” Feedback from wider testing guided further improvements to EyeFocus.
Supported by NIHR i4i FAST funding, the next step is to evaluate EyeFocus in a hospital setting. Nine stroke survivors with neglect will use the app alongside standard care. We will assess their symptoms before, during, and after therapy, track session completion, and gather feedback from patients and therapists on feasibility and usability. Insights will refine the app and shape a larger trial to test its effectiveness in improving neglect and daily functioning.
Designed in partnership with survivors, carers, and clinicians—with a stroke survivor as study advisor—EyeFocus aims to deliver enjoyable, cost-effective therapy that reduces disability, enhances quality of life, and lowers NHS costs.
REC name
Wales REC 1
REC reference
25/WA/0319
Date of REC Opinion
3 Dec 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion