The psychosocial impact of sight loss on older people: An update of the evidence

Authors: Nyman, S.R., Gosney, M.A. and Victor, C.R.

Conference: VISION 2008

Dates: 7-11 July 2008

Journal: CD ROM

Pages: 86.4

Abstract:

Sight loss is common in old age and is projected to rise with an ageing population. We reviewed the literature that assessed the psychosocial impact of sight loss on older people. Using previous search terms, we searched Medline and PsycInfo for published quantitative studies in English from 2001 to October 2007. Sight loss was associated with depression, reduced quality of life, and poorer social functioning. However, the relationship between sight loss and anxiety was mixed. Factors affecting the psychosocial impact of sight loss included spirituality, optimism, positive social comparisons, goal pursuits, and support from family and friends. The evidence shows that rehabilitation and counselling have had a modest impact on reducing depression, with stronger RCT-based evidence in support of self-management and problem-solving techniques. More research is required into the design and evaluation of interventions to reduce the psychosocial impact of sight loss in older people.

http://www.opto.umontreal.ca/vision2008/index.htm

Source: Manual