Iranian Rehabilitation Journal (Dec 2015)
The Influence of the Olfaction, Audition and Tactile Senses in Mobility and Orientation of Blinds
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of olfaction, audition and tactile senses in mobility and orientation of blinds. Methods: The statistical sample of this research included 100 blind persons aged between 16 and 75 years (61 males and 39 females) with different level of education (16 persons lower than the diploma, 26 persons diploma, 46 persons bachelor, 12 person MA), were randomly selected from most regions of the country. Analysis of obtained data were done by Friedman statistical method and using the SPSS software. Results: It shows the close relationship between the senses, and according to the null hypothesis, based on senses role from the blind's opinion, audition sense has a highest rating and tactile sense has a lowest rating in mobility and orientation of blinds. Discussion: Telemetry senses, especially audition, are more important in mobility and orientation of blinds. Thus, with proper training of blinds to use their existing capabilities and also with organizing the environments around in a way to increase their ability, they can have mobility and activity in environment easily
