Occupational Therapy Interventions to Improve Leisure and Social Participation for Older Adults With Low Vision: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This systematic review examined evidence regarding the effectiveness of interventions within the scope of occupational therapy practice to maintain, restore, and improve performance in leisure and social participation for older adults with low vision. We identified and reviewed 13 articles that met the inclusion criteria. Four themes related to interventions to improve leisure and social participation emerged from the literature review: using a problem-solving approach, delivering a combination of services, providing skills training, and making home visits and environmental adaptations. The strongest evidence supports using a problem-solving approach to improve leisure and social participation for older adults with low vision. Evidence was moderate supporting the delivery of a combination of services, either by one professional or through an interdisciplinary approach. Results for the effectiveness of skills training and home visits and home adaptations were mixed. Implications for practice, education, and research are discussed.

Identifying the enablers and barriers to community participation amongst older adults

“…This supports previous findings, which suggested that community-based groups that are interest-focused encouraged older adults' participation (Andonian & MacRae, 2011;Berger, McAteer, Schreier, & Kaldenberg, 2013;Lee, Lee, & Park, 2014;Ormsby, Stanley, & Jaworski, 2010;Richeson, Buettner, McKenzie, Fitzsimmons, & Keller, 2006). Previous research also suggested that designing groups to promote the development or maintenance of friendships, health and interests encourages community participation by older adults (Andonian & MacRae, 2011;Dickens, Richards, Greaves, & Campbell, 2011;Nicholson, 2012).…”

Social Participation After Kidney Transplantation as a Predictor of Graft Loss and Mortality Over 10 Years

“…25 The benefits of this approach need to be verified in KT recipients, however. Although some of these effects may not seem as severe, they can cause a high level of distress in the patient and lead to decreased SP and possibly even to breaking the immunosuppressive regimen.…”

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“…Optometrists, ophthalmologists, orthoptists, nurses, rehabilitation workers, social workers, counsellors and orientation and mobility workers are just some of the professionals involved. Of note is the recent increase in low vision service provision from occupational therapists …”

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