Vision-Related Quality of Life and Its Sociodemographic Correlates Among Individuals With Visual Impairments

Abstract

Introduction: Visual impairment is an important public health concern worldwide that negatively affects quality of life (QOL). We aimed to assess the vision-related QOL and determine its sociodemographic correlates among individuals with visual impairments. Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional study during the years 2016–2017 among 201 individuals with visual impairments aged ≥ 40 years. After obtaining informed consent, we collected relevant information regarding sociodemographic characteristics using a pretested questionnaire and assessed vision-related QOL using the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25). An ophthalmologist conducted comprehensive ophthalmic examinations of all the eligible study participants. Results: The mean VFQ-25 composite score was 52.91 + 7.61. The subscale score was highest for color vision (72.39 + 21.71) and worst in the dependency subscale (31.43 + 25.2). Multivariable ordinal regression revealed that variables such as gender, place of residence, household overcrowding, dietary habits, practicing exercise or yoga, and type of eye disorder were significantly ( p< .05) associated with the QOL of individuals with visual impairments. Discussion: The QOL among individuals with visual impairments was poor in our study. Further research is needed to establish associations of various factors with the QOL. Implications for practitioners: Incorporating these determinants of vision-related QOL in the existing strategies could be useful for health care providers and social service providers in promoting the well-being of individuals with visual impairments.

Benefits of meditation and breathing exercises in vision loss patients

“…Marques found that yoga was associated with self-perceived improvements in emotional, social, and physical health in patients with various medical conditions, including vision loss patients (Marquès-Brocksopp, 2014). Studies reported better quality of life in vision loss patients who practiced yoga compared to those who did not (Gagrani et al, 2018; Panigrahi et al, 2021). In addition, Jeter et al (2015) found that yoga interventions may negative psychosocial states, such as anxiety, depression, and stress, by providing postural stability and minimizing the fear of fallling.…”

“…These findings suggest that interventions involving meditation, breathing exercises, and yoga may play an important role in improving the physical health and functionality of children with vision loss. Studies on meditation and breathing exercises demonstrated self-perceived improvements in emotional, social, and physical health, a better quality of life, and improved negative psychosocial states, including depression, anxiety, and stress in adult vision loss patients (Gagrani et al, 2018;Jeter et al, 2015;Marquès-Brocksopp, 2014;Panigrahi et al, 2021). Falling is a significant concern for patients with vision loss; however, the improved postural stability from yoga and meditation exercises can help improve these negative psychological states (Roach et al 2014).…”

Exploring the healthcare access challenges faced by visually impaired young women in Nepal: Navigating sexual harassment and stigma within healthcare settings

“…Themes including financial hardship, lack of autonomy in healthcare access decision-making, prejudice and discrimination, and lack of disability-friendly health institutions and services are consistent with previous studies conducted in Nepal among women with disabilities [ 17 , 26 , 16 ]. The existing inequity in health care access due to disability has been established in general health services as well as in specific preventative health services including pap smear testing for cervical cancer as well as physical exercise, healthy diet, and safe sex programs [ 27 , 28 , 29 ].…”

The Effect of Vocational Training on Visually Impaired People’s Quality of Life

“…Consequently, their daily activities, employment, and independence are negatively impacted [ 11 , 13 , 14 ]. Specifically, individuals with visual impairment have fewer opportunities for leisure activities and encounter financial challenges, including a higher likelihood of financial crises due to employment difficulties [ 15 , 16 ]. As visual impairment becomes more prevalent in an aging society, the declining quality of life for individuals with eye disorders is an increasingly significant concern.…”