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Aim was to explore the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and related factors among older adults with visual impairment (VI). A total of 39 independently living subjects aged ⩾65 years (83 ± 6.5), referred to the Low Vision Center of the Oulu University Hospital, Finland during one year participated in the study. The participants had low vision or blindness as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO). The 15D, a generic HRQoL instrument, was used to assess the HRQoL, and an ophthalmic examination was performed to assess vision. A population-based control group ( n = 1074) was available for comparison. The mean 15D index scores for the participants and the control group were 0.768 ( SD = 0.089) and 0.827 ( SD = 0.044), respectively, ( p < .002). In the dimensions of move ( p < .05), see ( p < .001), breath ( p < .05), usual activities ( p < .001), depression ( p < .05), and distress ( p < .05), the study participants scored statistically significantly lower than the control group. However, the participants had better mental function scores (0.856 vs 0.773, p < .05). Among the participants, there was no difference in the 15D by gender (men 0.755, women 0.774, p > .05), habitation (alone 0.768, with someone 0.770, p > .05), or age ( r = –.084), nor did the extent of low vision appear to affect the 15D index in this material. The older adults with VI had poorer 15D index score than Finnish population of equal age, but they scored better in the dimension of mental function. Mental skills may indeed be crucial for independent living despite VI.

Visual impairments (VI) burden particularly the aging population globally. To ensure healthy aging despite disability, the health care systems must provide effective low-vision rehabilitation services (LVR) for those in need. Low-vision rehabilitation counseling (LVRC) requires specialized multidisciplinary teamwork and has not been studied in detail among the elderly. This study aims to provide a comprehensive picture of individual LVRC actions and introduce a LVRC classification to use for attempts to improve the LVRC processes. This study employed a qualitative follow-up design. Data describing the individual LVRC processes in a prospective cohort of elderly patients with VI ( n = 39) were collected individually over 2 years during the years 2016–2019. The data were analyzed through deductive content analysis. The analyzed LVRC provided assistive devices, services, and home modifications, but problems related to independent movement in the living environment, psychosocial burdens, adaptation to disability, and learning new compensatory skills received less attention. To ensure effective LVRC, the multiprofessional team providing the rehabilitation should emphasize goal-setting and continuous assessment. LVRC should be seen as a process of adaptation, adherence, and learning. LVRC should support and promote older adults to participate and function to their full potential in the modern society, which includes utilizing digital technologies.

This study describes the self-estimated functional ability of older adults with visual impairments (VI) living at home prior to and after 24 months of individual low vision rehabilitation (LVR) according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework. The LVR was carried out according to regular standard of care in Finland. The study provides knowledge that is relevant for improving both LVR as well as other services for older adults living with VI. Thirty-nine older adults with VI initially participated in the study with 28 remaining for the follow-up at 24 months of LVR. Data were collected by an orally administered questionnaire including items from the Oldwellactive Wellness Profile instrument. Data were analyzed using the marginal homogeneity test, and the outcomes were divided into four categories according to the ICF framework. Comparisons between the baseline and 2-year follow-up revealed statistically significant decreases in daily functions, including going outdoors ( p = .011), washing oneself ( p = .016), taking care for personal hygiene ( p = .046), dressing ( p = .034), preparing meals ( p = .041), and doing heavy housework ( p = .046), following 2 years of received LVR. A statistically significant increase in the need for help was also observed during the study period ( p = .025). The independence of older adults with VI decreased, and the need for external services or help increased during 24 months after the onset of receiving LVR. Visual problems were shown to widely affect functional ability. Activities and participation dimension together with loneliness are most affected and need attention in individual LVR.