Optometric Care of the Aged and Partially Sighted: Present Concepts and Future Trends in Australasia

Abstract

The growth and present format of Low Vision Clinics are summarised in terms of locations, funding, personnel, procedures and services rendered. Some shortcomings in the services provided are discussed. The current neglect of specific and effective optometric care of the aged, i.e. Geriatric Optometry, is highlighted and a concept of Geriatric Optometry is elaborated. Economic and cost‐effect problems associated with low vision and geriatric optometry are presented.

The Developmental History and an Evaluation of the Queensland Low Vision Care Centre

“…A multidisciplinary, co-operative and integrated team approach is required. [2][3][4][5] In Australia, it was not until 1972 that the first multidisciplinary clinic providing a comprehensive low vision service was established at the Association for the Blind in Kooyong, Victoria. The Royal Blind Society of New South Wales followed in 1977, the Adelaide Low Vision Clinic in 1978, the Concord Repatriation and General Hospital (NSW) in 1978 and the Low Vision Care Centre, Queensland in 1979.…”

“…The Royal Blind Society of New South Wales followed in 1977, the Adelaide Low Vision Clinic in 1978, the Concord Repatriation and General Hospital (NSW) in 1978 and the Low Vision Care Centre, Queensland in 1979. 4 There are also a number of Low Vision Clinics in Public Hospitals throughout Australia and several Low Vision Clinics in New Zealand. 4 The Australian National Council of and for the Blind (ANCB) comprises member agencies in each state who have a commitment to the provision of comprehensive low vision services.…”

“…4 There are also a number of Low Vision Clinics in Public Hospitals throughout Australia and several Low Vision Clinics in New Zealand. 4 The Australian National Council of and for the Blind (ANCB) comprises member agencies in each state who have a commitment to the provision of comprehensive low vision services. In August 1978, after the 1977 November annual conference of the ANCB in Brisbane, a Working Party was formed to look at low vision services in Australia.…”