Self-management programs for adults with low vision: needs and challenges.
OBJECTIVE
To explore the needs of individuals with low vision in order to inform the contents of a low vision self-management (SM) program and determine potential barriers to participation.


METHODS
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 48 participants with low vision resulting different from eye conditions. Qualitative analysis was conducted in order to identify major themes.


RESULTS
All participants described a range of consequences as a result of vision loss including difficulties with functional activities, social interaction and emotional distress. Less than half were interested in attending a SM program. Barriers included practical reasons as well as a perceived lack of need and unclear or negative perceptions of such a program.


CONCLUSIONS
SM programs for low vision are a promising way to help address the range of difficulties experienced by this population if barriers to participation can be overcome.


CONCLUSIONS
SM programs should include vision-specific strategies, training in generic problem-solving and goal setting skills and how to cope with emotional reactions to vision impairment. Programs should be delivered and promoted in such a way to enhance access and encourage uptake by those with a range of vision loss in the community.
Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Australia. grees@unimelb.edu.au
G
G
Rees
C L
CL
Saw
E L
EL
Lamoureux
J E
JE
Keeffe
D000203:Activities of Daily Living / Q000523:psychology; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003863:Depression / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D004644:Emotions; D005260:Female; D006040:Goals; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000458:organization & administration*; D009517:New South Wales; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011340:Problem Solving; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012648:Self Care / Q000379:methods* / Q000523:psychology; D012919:Social Behavior; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D015354:Vision, Low / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation