Abstract
Presentation Description :
Longer lifespan has increased the numbers of individuals living with vision loss from age-related eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, cataract and glaucoma: vision loss is primarily and increasingly, a problem of aging. To be effective, healthcare must address social, environmental and behavioral aspects of functional behavior and wellbeing. Because people living with vision loss most often have other health issues, all service providers including primary care physicians, dentists, podiatrists, physical therapists, have to understand their role in identifying, providing care and referring patients for specialized services: every touchpoint is an opportunity to help those with vision loss. Onset of legal blindness results in a 78% increase in the likelihood of ADL limitations 39% of legally blind individuals experience ADL limitations, compared to 7% of those with better vision. Moreover, even the earliest stages of vision loss harbinger significant changes in everyday activities. Uncertainty about further loss of vision often creates significant disruption in psychological well-being. Behavioral aspects of vision loss are often overlooked in addressing the care needs of individuals with loss of vision yet contribute significantly to morbidity. As many as 30% of patients with VI have depression, which has its own decompensating trajectory. In terms of inpatient care, vision loss rarely is addressed in the patient’s care plan, even though patients with vision loss stay in hospital longer, are most costly, experience more problems after discharge and, overall, are less satisfied with their healthcare. Understanding the importance of vision loss to everyday functioning and wellbeing will help to improve patient–physician communication, and better meet patient needs.
This abstract was presented at the 2019 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Vancouver, Canada, April 28 - May 2, 2019.