Impact of low vision services on functional status and vision related quality of life in adults

Introduction: Low vision (L. Vn) rehabilitation for adults is a part of our service oriented eye hospital. We studied changes in visual function (VF) & vision related quality of life (VQL) of adults with low vision at least three months after providing them rehabilitative services. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study conducted in H V Desai Eye Hospital, Pune during 2010-2011. L. Vin disabled aged 16 years and older attending clinic were Our study population. Their distance and near Visual acuity presented and best corrected (BCVA) were noted. Other VF included contrast sensitivity, colour perception, dark adaptation and glare effects. The L Vn rehabilitation services (both optical and non-optical) were provided. Six months after intervention, the participants were interviewed using close ended questionnaire to determine their VQL and HQL. VF were also reassessed to estimate the impact. Result: We assessed 67 L Vn disabled. The distance vision improved by using L Vn devices in 48 (72%) disabled. The near vision improved with help of LVn devices in 57(85%) disabled. VF of all 59 (88%) participants with contrast defect improved by using filters, illumination changes and environmental changes in their workplaces. The participant's perspective suggested that marked improvement in VQL were for the outdoor and indoor activities, reading and Writing. There was decline in emotional distress due to the Visual impairment. Conclusion: Low vision rehabilitation improved VF, VQL and HQL of adult six months after use of low vision services