Vernier acuity and aging.

PURPOSE/BACKGROUND: Many visual functions change with age. Hyperacuity vernier thresholds, however, seem to remain practically invariant with age.

METHODS

We critically review reports on age-related changes in hyperacuity thresholds and present new data using two and three-point vernier hyperacuity thresholds.

RESULTS

It appears as though the vernier (two dot or two line) alignment hyperacuity thresholds are not sensitive to age.

SIGNIFICANCE

Based on these studies we propose that hyperacuity (vernier) thresholds be used as a benchmark, or a gold standard for aging studies. This measurement can serve as a valuable control and reference for other clinical studies of aging.