Visual status and ocular morbidity in older adults living in residential care

Abstract

The prevalence of visual impairment and blindness is significant among the older adults living in residential care centers. The frequency of visual impairment and blindness can be prevented by adequate refractive correction, frequent eye examination, and appropriate high use of cataract surgery.

Impact of Visual Impairment on Vision-Specific Quality of Life among Older Adults Living in Nursing Home

“…[1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12] Major causes of irreversible blindness such as retinal diseases, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) as well as reversible causes like cataract are common in nursing homes. It is vital that vision care not be ignored in this population.…”

“…It is vital that vision care not be ignored in this population. 1,12,13 VI has significant and deleterious impact on quality of life (QoL) and reduces vision-related QoL. 2,3,5,6,14 Vision-related QoL is the present visual status and the limitations in daily living activities like personal hygiene, communication, self-care, social skills, mobility, safety etc.…”

“…Visual function is important for an optimal orientation in functional and social life and has effects on physical, psychological, mental and emotional well-being. 1,[14][15][16][17][18] Impaired vision significantly reduces activities associated with participation in society and religion, mobility, recreation and daily living etc. [1][2][3]15,16 Vision loss in later life contributes to physical activity limitations, reduction in independent mobility, imbalance, risk of hip fractures, mortality and the need for community and/or family support.…”

“…1,[14][15][16][17][18] Impaired vision significantly reduces activities associated with participation in society and religion, mobility, recreation and daily living etc. [1][2][3]15,16 Vision loss in later life contributes to physical activity limitations, reduction in independent mobility, imbalance, risk of hip fractures, mortality and the need for community and/or family support. 2,3,7,16,18 VI and blindness are major forms of disability in individuals living in nursing homes and these affect vision-specific functioning and socio-emotional aspects of daily living.…”

Visual Outcomes of Manual, Small-Incision Cataract Surgery in Patients with Coexisting Corneal Opacity

“…Patients with both cataracts and corneal opacity are often elderly [17]. The goal for these patients is to achieve basic vision for a normal life, and safety is the essential requirement [18]. Cataract surgery is a viable approach for these patients.…”