Health-Related Quality of Life Among Individuals with Visual Conditions Requiring Eyecare During COVID-19 Lockdown.

Abstract

Background: Individuals with chronic vision diseases need regular ophthalmic follow-up. However, access to non-urgent ophthalmic services was limited in areas of strict lockdown during SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic. This article aimed to o assess Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and its predictors in individuals with chronic vision conditions during COVID-19 lockdown. Methods: A cross-sectional, survey-based study targeted Jordanians adults with variety of chronic vision conditions require regular ophthalmic follow-up. Outcome measures included HRQoL measured by 12-item Short Form health survey (SF-12), mental health symptoms measured by Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS 21), vision ability measured by the National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire (VFQ-25) General Vision and Role Limitation subscales. Data were analyzed descriptively and using a multiple variable linear regression to identify HRQoL predictors. Results: A total of 201 participants completed the study with a mean age of 52.09 (±15.41) years and SF-12 mean score of 57.90 (±18.15). Level of HRQoL was significantly and negatively predicted by VFQ-25 Role Limitation subscale, presence of diabetes, the need of ophthalmic follow-up during lockdown, and stress. The regression model explained 47.1% of the variance in HRQoL (r2=0.471, F=35.57, P<0.001).Conclusions: Jordanian individuals with chronic vision conditions requiring non-urgent ophthalmic follow-up demonstrated a relatively low level of HRQoL during COVID-19 lockdown. Participants also showed adverse impact on mental health and reported low accessibility to ophthalmic care. Access to non-urgent ophthalmic care in individuals with chronic vision diseases should be carefully considered by healthcare administrations and policymakers for optimal service planning during pandemics and crises.