Recorded presentation

Rosa Tang, MD, MPH, Ophthalmology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 775555, (409) 797-1458, rtang@utmb.edu, Patricia Heyn, PhD, Division of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555, Steven Owen, PhD, Cntr\ Epidemiology & Biostatis, The University of Texas Health Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, and Mukaila Raji, MD, INTERNAL MEDICINE-GERIATRICS, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555.

Visual impairment (VI) directly and indirectly affects the health and the quality of life of the elderly. Visual loss is one of the major reasons for a patient to visit the eye clinic. Considering the dramatic demographic shift in the U.S. toward an older population and the evidence that shows that elderly groups are at higher risk for developing visual impairments, there is a need to identify indicators that affect the quality of life of the visually impaired elderly. The purpose of this study is to assess the quality of life and the prevalence of visual impairment, ocular disease, and visual functioning in a sample of elderly people from an Eye Clinic. A primary goal of this pilot study is to determine if there is a relationship between visual impairment and quality of life in elders with mild to moderate visual disabilities. Methods: Eighty older adults, age 55 and older, from an Eye Clinic will comprise the sample. To be included in the study patients have to come to the eye clinic for a complete eye exam and be able to communicate. Each patient will complete a medical history, a comprehensive eye examination and respond to the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36, Vs.2).Preliminary analysis focuses on the prevalence of visual impairment and indicators of perceived health status. As a result of this study the investigators will plan to design interdisciplinary collaboration initiated by eye care professionals to help meet the overall needs of elders with visual impairment.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to

• Identify the basics that affect the quality of life of the visually impaired older adult.
• Articulate the procedure for assessing the quality of life of a patient with visual problems.
• Understand common barriers for quality of life on this population.

Keywords: Quality of Life, Vision Care

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation