Screening tool · 2 min
Peripheral Vision Awareness Test
Focus on a center target and tap when shapes appear in your side vision.
What this test measures
A short, educational reflection on how aware you are of objects appearing in your side vision while focusing on a center target.
Why it matters
Peripheral vision supports driving, sports, walking, and daily safety. Changes in side vision can sometimes be linked to glaucoma, retinal conditions, or neurological issues.
Who may benefit
Anyone curious about their visual awareness — particularly drivers, athletes, and those with a family history of glaucoma.
Peripheral vision powers safe driving, sports, and detecting hazards. Because glaucoma often damages side vision silently, this educational exercise from Dr. Roxanna Gangi, Optometrist can prompt you to book a comprehensive eye exam if you notice gaps. If you're a driver, also see our driver's licence vision test.
Disclaimer: This online peripheral vision awareness test is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not diagnose eye disease, measure your prescription, or replace a comprehensive eye examination. Screen brightness, device quality, lighting, viewing distance and concentration can all affect results. If you experience sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, flashes of light, trauma, or other urgent symptoms, seek immediate medical attention, or book a comprehensive eye exam or professional consultation with Dr. Roxanna Gangi, Optometrist.
How to take this test
- Hold your device about 40 cm (arm's length) away.
- Keep your eyes fixed on the center dot the entire time.
- Tap the screen the moment you notice a shape flash near the edges.
- Try not to move your eyes — only your awareness matters.
Take the test
Stare at the centre dot. Tap the moment you notice a shape flash near the edges.
Why Peripheral Vision Matters
Peripheral vision is the part of your sight outside the very center. It is responsible for detecting movement, navigating crowded spaces, and reacting to objects entering your field of view — from a cyclist beside your car to a ball in your peripheral view during sports.
Conditions That Can Affect Side Vision
- Glaucoma — often affects peripheral vision before central vision.
- Retinal conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa.
- Stroke or neurological conditions affecting visual pathways.
- Severe diabetic retinopathy or retinal detachment.
Patients in Toronto, Aurora, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Thornhill, Newmarket, and across York Region, Ontario can book a comprehensive eye exam with Dr. Roxanna Gangi, Optometrist to investigate any concerns about side vision.
Frequently asked questions
Want an expert opinion from anywhere in Ontario?
Online tools are a great starting point, but a one-on-one review with Dr. Roxanna Gangi, Optometrist can put your results in context and guide your next steps. Anyone living in Ontario, Canada can book a secure online consultancy — no need to travel to the clinic.