Abstract
Purpose :
Former research shows that 57% of the adults with visual impairment experience symptoms of severe fatigue. As there is no evidence based treatment, we developed a blended vision-specific cognitive behavioral and self-management based E-health intervention, called E-nergEYEze, to reduce fatigue in visually impaired adults. The intervention is (digitally) guided by social workers and digital features are explained by computer trainers. The purpose was to investigate the usability and feasibility regarding accessibility of the prototype.
Methods :
E-nergEYEze has been developed based on evidence-based practice by a design team, who provided input for relevant themes and content based on new and existing modules. A usability study was conducted among 5 adults (mean age 54y, 80% male) with different eye conditions and severity of vision loss. Participants were asked to test E-nergEYEze while applying the think-aloud method, followed by a semi-structured interview. A thematic approach was used to analyze the data, after which the prototype was modified. A feasibility study was performed among 10 adults (mean age 50y, 60% male) with visual impairment and severe fatigue. The primary outcome was the Checklist Individual Strength subscale fatigue severity measured before and 3 months after baseline measurement.
Results :
The prototype required substantive adjustments, lay-out changes and additional guidance by professionals. Participants of the usability study were interested to follow the intervention themselves. The feasibility study showed a significant reduction of severe fatigue (Wilcoxon Marched-Pairs test; z-score -2.652, p-value 0.008, SD 3.03-8.20). All participants recommended the intervention to others and gave E-nergEYEze a median score of 8.0 (range 7-10). One participant was lost to follow-up due to personal circumstances and two because of different expectations of the intervention.
Conclusions :
Results of the E-nergEYEze prototype pilot study are promising in reducing fatigue in adults with visual impairment. As the design, severity of the visual impairment and skills on assistive technology determine the ability to access E-health for people with visual impairment, we carefully considered accessibility for users with visual impairment in the development of E-nergEYEze. Cost-effectiveness of E-nergEYEze is currently investigated in a randomized controlled trial.
This is a 2021 ARVO Annual Meeting abstract.