title: Older adults coping with vision loss.
abstract: Age-related vision loss is one of the most commonly cited disabling impairments of adult life. Stressors presented by vision loss can create barriers, threatening the well-being of the individual. This qualitative study of 30 older adults (65 to 95 years of age) investigated vision loss and coping strategies. All participants experienced unexpected sight loss during their adult years. The Adaptation to Age-Related Vision Loss (AVL) Scale was used in this study to examine psychosocial adaptation to vision impairment. The coping strategies of vision impairment were assessed by collecting self-reported reflections toward vision loss and how the change impacted the participant's life. Given the correct balance of support, confidence, and acceptance, older adults can confront the existing barriers and focus on the ability to optimize function with vision loss. Health care service providers and practitioners can provide needed assistance and a helpful guide to assist older adults in successfully coping with vision impairment.
authors.affiliation: Department of Sociology and Coordinator of Gerontology Academic Program, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, California State University, Fullerton, CA 92834-6846, USA. jweber@fullerton.edu
authors.forename: Joseph A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Weber
authors.forename: Karen B
authors.initials: KB
authors.lastname: Wong
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States; D014786:Vision Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology*; D019987:Persons with Visual Disabilities / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data