ISSN (Online): 3107-622X
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New Era Medical Journal

Official Journal of the Society of Multidisciplinary Health Sciences

Open Access Journal

Review Article

Effectiveness of Low Vision Rehabilitation Services on Visual Function and Quality of Life in Individuals with Visual Impairment: A Systematic Review

New Era Medical Journal | Volume 1, Issue 2 | September 2025
Authors: Avilasha Acharya, Dr. Partha Chowdhury, Dr Brinda Shah
Received: Apr 07, 2025 Accepted: Jul 27, 2025 Published: Sep 20, 2025
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Abstract

Background: Low vision rehabilitation (LVR) is essential for improving visual function and overall quality of life in individuals with irreversible visual impairment. Despite the growing prevalence of visual impairment due to aging and chronic eye diseases, the effectiveness of various LVR interventions remains uncertain because of inconsistent outcomes and limited high-quality evidence.

Objective: To systematically review and evaluate the effectiveness of low vision rehabilitation services on visual function and quality of life among individuals with visual impairment.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted by searching major electronic databases for studies published up to 2024. Included studies evaluated low vision rehabilitation interventions such as optometric care, multidisciplinary services, adaptive skills training, and self-management programs. Outcomes assessed included visual function (visual acuity, reading speed), activities of daily living (ADLs/IADLs), psychological status, and vision-related quality of life (QoL). Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers.

Results: The review found that low vision rehabilitation interventions consistently improved visual function, especially when low vision aids (LVAs) were combined with training. Multidisciplinary programs showed significant gains in functional independence and QoL compared to standard care. However, evidence for psychological outcomes and long-term QoL improvements was inconsistent. Variation in outcome measurement tools and limited randomized controlled trials were major barriers to comparing results across studies.

Conclusion: Low vision rehabilitation improves visual function and functional independence, but evidence regarding psychological benefits and long-term QoL is limited. There is a need for standardized outcome measures, long-term follow-up, and high-quality randomized trials to establish the most effective LVR models.

Keywords: Low vision rehabilitation; visual function; quality of life; low vision aids

Article Information
DOI: 10.62502/nemj/v1i1art6
Journal: New Era Medical Journal
Abbreviation: New Era Med. J.
ISSN (Online): 3107-622X
Volume/Issue: 1(2)
Pages: 1-8
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Vancouver Style:
Acharya A, Chowdhury DP, Shah DB. Effectiveness of Low Vision Rehabilitation Services on Visual Function and Quality of Life in Individuals with Visual Impairment: A Systematic Review. New Era Med. J. 2025;1(2):1-8. doi: 10.62502/nemj/v1i1art6
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Article Details

Article Type:
Review Article

Volume/Issue:
1(2)

Year:
2025

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