Blurred Vision Simulation

A technique used in accessibility evaluation where evaluators simulate the visual experience of people with reduced visual acuity by artificially blurring their view of a website or application. Methods include using low vision simulation glasses (commercially available from organisations like the Lighthouse International), applying a Gaussian blur filter to screenshots, or using browser extensions that simulate various visual impairments. Blurred vision simulation helps sighted evaluators quickly identify issues with text size, contrast, visual hierarchy, and layout that would affect users with conditions like macular degeneration, cataracts, or uncorrected refractive errors. While not a substitute for testing with actual users who have visual impairments, it provides a practical first-pass evaluation method.