What this helps track
Guided on-screen tasks with reduced-contrast letters and shapes help track subtle changes in visual sensitivity over time.
Low-contrast vision
Low-contrast vision assessments on iPhone and iPad
Guided low-contrast tasks to help track subtle visual changes.
Why it matters
Low-contrast visual changes can be an early indicator of neurologic shifts, particularly for people living with multiple sclerosis. Repeating short, structured tasks makes it easier to notice trends that everyday vision checks may miss.
What this assessment measures
Low-contrast letter acuity is a well-recognized marker of subtle visual pathway change and is used in MS clinical research and care to complement standard high-contrast acuity. Alumina's task samples letter identification at reduced contrast so that gradual shifts, often unnoticed in everyday vision, can be tracked across weeks and months.
How it works
What a typical session looks like
Each session is short and guided end-to-end, so you can focus on the task.
- 1Sit in a well-lit room and hold the device at a comfortable, consistent distance.
- 2Wear your usual glasses or contacts if you use them.
- 3Identify letters as they appear at decreasing contrast levels.
- 4Complete the session with each eye and both eyes together as guided.
- 5Repeat weekly or on a schedule that fits your care plan.
What your results show
You'll see a per-eye contrast score and how it compares with your recent range. Reviewers look for meaningful directional change rather than a single session, and often correlate results with fatigue, temperature, or MS relapse history.
Example tasks
Guided assessments in this category
Tasks are designed to be short, repeatable, and easy to complete on iPhone or iPad.
- Low-contrast letter recognition
- Faded shape identification
- Contrast sensitivity prompts
- Repeated baseline check-ins
Commonly used for
Conditions where this assessment is often used
Alumina is a tracking tool, not a diagnostic device. These are conditions where this category is commonly used to monitor change over time.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about the low-contrast vision assessment on Alumina Health.
Is this a replacement for an eye exam?
No. Comprehensive eye care requires an in-person examination by a qualified professional. Alumina supports at-home tracking of contrast sensitivity trends and does not diagnose eye disease.
Why low contrast specifically?
Standard eye charts test high-contrast acuity, which can remain normal even when subtle changes in the visual pathway are present. Low-contrast tasks are more sensitive to these changes, particularly in MS.
Should I run the test with each eye?
Yes. Alternating between eyes and testing both together helps surface asymmetries that may be relevant to a clinical discussion.
Does room lighting matter?
It matters a lot. Try to run the task in similar lighting each time so results stay comparable, and note any changes in setup at the end of the session.
Who it may help
Helpful for monitoring related concerns
- People living with multiple sclerosis (MS)
- People monitoring vision-related neurologic change
- Caregivers tracking subtle visual shifts
Alumina Health is designed to support structured tracking, not diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical advice.
Related
Other assessment categories
Memory & Recall
Guided memory tasks you can complete from home.
View Memory & Recall detailsTremor & Hand Control
Guided tasks for tremor, steadiness, and fine motor control.
View Tremor & Hand Control detailsTapping & Coordination
Simple tap tests for rhythm and movement consistency.
View Tapping & Coordination details
Alumina Health is now available on iPhone and iPad
Download Alumina Health today and take advantage of special launch pricing through June 30, 2026, designed for patients, caregivers, and ongoing care discussions.
