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

Official Journal of the Society of Multidisciplinary Health Sciences

Open Access Journal

Original Research

Psychological Outcomes of Long-Term Low Vision Rehabilitation in Elderly Patients with Age-Related Ocular Diseases

Authors: Dr. Sailesh Kumar

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Abstract

Background: Low vision rehabilitation (LVR) aims to improve functional independence in elderly individuals with irreversible age-related ocular diseases. Psychological adaptation, however, may require long-term intervention.

Objective: To evaluate psychological outcomes of long-term LVR in elderly patients with age-related visual impairment.

Methods: A prospective longitudinal observational study was conducted at a tertiary low vision rehabilitation center. Seventy-two patients aged ≥60 years with irreversible visual impairment were assessed at baseline and after long-term rehabilitation using Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), vision-related self-efficacy instruments, and NEI VFQ-25.

Results: Significant reductions were observed in depression (GDS: 9.8±3.1 to 6.4±2.7, p<0.001) and anxiety (HADS-A: 10.2±2.8 to 7.1±2.4, p<0.001). Self-efficacy and vision-related quality of life improved significantly (p<0.001). Longer rehabilitation duration correlated with greater psychological gains.

Conclusion: Long-term LVR improves psychological wellbeing, self-efficacy, and quality of life in elderly patients, supporting the need for sustained rehabilitation services.

Keywords: Low vision rehabilitation, Psychological outcomes, Age-related ocular disease


Article Information
DOI: 10.62502/nemj/v1i1art8
Journal: New Era Medical Journal
Abbreviation: New Era Med. J.
ISSN (Online): 3107-622X
Volume/Issue: 1(2)
Pages: 12-17

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How to Cite
Vancouver Style:
Kumar DS. Psychological Outcomes of Long-Term Low Vision Rehabilitation in Elderly Patients with Age-Related Ocular Diseases. New Era Med. J. 2025;1(2):12-17. doi: 10.62502/nemj/v1i1art8