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Stalin A, Narayan A, Labreche T, Khan S, Stanberry A, Christian LWT, Leat SJ. Status of Vision and Eye Care Among Patients in Rehabilitation Hospital Units: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2024; 25:361-367.e1. [PMID: 38052415 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2023.10.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The prevalence of vision disorders is high among geriatric and hospital inpatient populations, yet they often go undetected, resulting in consequences such as falls or prolonged recovery time. A needs assessment study was conducted to investigate levels of vision and the potential prevalence of unmanaged/undiagnosed ocular disorders among adult inpatients in a hospital-based rehabilitation unit. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS Inpatient rehabilitation units of an acute care hospital system in Ontario, Canada. Adults (n = 112) in a hospital inpatient rehabilitation unit participated from October 2018 to February 2019. METHODS Participants were surveyed regarding their demographic, ocular, and medical data and spectacle wear. Visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, visual fields, and stereoacuity plus the spectacle condition were directly assessed. RESULTS The majority (75%) were found to have reduced habitual vision while in hospital. Nearly 60% of participants reported at least some difficulty reading a newspaper or distinguishing a face or were "not happy with their vision." This was despite 80% of participants reporting that they had an eye care practitioner and 70% that they had an eye examination within the last 2 years. More than half (51.8%) of the participants received the recommendation to follow up with their eye care practitioner on discharge from the hospital. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Reduced vision and vision disorders has a high prevalence among hospital patients in rehabilitation units and should be evaluated at or soon after hospital intake. By incorporating vision screening tools, necessary precautions may be taken to avoid possible falls and promote recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amritha Stalin
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | - Tammy Labreche
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shamrozé Khan
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andre Stanberry
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa W T Christian
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susan J Leat
- School of Optometry & Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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Baig A, Foss A, Sahota O, Sehat K, Ash I. Vision Screening in Older Adults Admitted with a Fragility Hip Fracture: A Healthcare Quality Improvement Report. Br Ir Orthopt J 2023; 19:96-107. [PMID: 38027394 PMCID: PMC10668886 DOI: 10.22599/bioj.331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This healthcare quality improvement report focussed on the effectiveness of an orthoptic-led inpatient vision screening service at Nottingham University Hospitals for older adults admitted with a fragility hip fracture. The service was developed in response to national guidance, which recommended a multifactorial assessment, including a vision assessment for older adults presenting following a fall. Method Vision screening was carried out by orthoptists on eligible patients ≥65 years of age admitted to the trauma and orthopaedic wards with a hip fracture. Retrospective data for patients screened between 2015-2019 were analysed, including: patient demographics; screening eligibility and outcome; ophthalmology referrals made; ophthalmology appointment attendance; and outcome. Results Of the 3321 patients admitted with a hip fracture between 2015-2019, 2033 (61%) were eligible for vision screening and 1532 (75%) of these were screened. Furthermore, 784 (51%) of the patients screened had an ocular abnormality requiring an ophthalmology referral, or a sight test at an optician. Only 144 of the 383 (38%) who required an ophthalmology referral via the GP were successfully referred, and only 107 of the 186 (58%) patients who were given appointments attended them. Additionally, 98 of 107 had pathology, with cataracts the most common finding (51%), and 61 of 98 (62%) patients had treatable vision impairment. Conclusions We found a large proportion of fragility hip fracture patients with impaired vision, much of which was treatable and could be detected effectively with orthoptic-led bedside screening. The most common eye problem in those referred to ophthalmology was cataracts. An internal referral pathway to ophthalmology is proposed. There is a need to investigate reasons for disengagement with eye care services in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishah Baig
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Alexander Foss
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Opinder Sahota
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Khosrow Sehat
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Isabel Ash
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
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Wright DM, O'Reilly D, Azuara-Blanco A, Hogg RE. Impact of car transport availability and drive time on eye examination uptake among adults aged ≥60 years: a record linkage study. Br J Ophthalmol 2018; 103:730-736. [PMID: 29970390 PMCID: PMC6582726 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2018-312201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
AIM To examine associations between uptake of free primary eye care, service availability (density of optometric practices) and service accessibility (household car access and drive time to nearest provider) after accounting for socioeconomic status and other individual, household and area factors. METHODS We constructed a cohort of 294 870 community-dwelling adults aged 60 years, drawing contextual information from the 2011 Northern Ireland Census. Minimum drive times to the nearest optometry practice (1-19 min) and number of practices were derived for 890 geographical areas. The primary outcome was attendance at one or more publicly funded eye examinations to which all cohort members were entitled between 2009 and 2014. We used multiple log-binomial regression to estimate associations between eye care uptake, car ownership and drive time. RESULTS Eye examination uptake was 60.0%. 23.7% of the cohort had no car access, and these individuals had lower uptake than car owners (unadjusted risk ratio (RR) of uptake=0.86 (0.86, 0.87)). Among non-car owners, uptake decreased with drive time (longest vs shortest: RR=0.92 (0.88, 0.97)) with the largest decrease at 4 min drive time (approximately 1.5 miles). This pattern was weaker among car owners. These associations were independent of service availability, which was not associated with uptake. CONCLUSION Both drive time and household car access were associated with eye care use, adjusting for individual, household and area factors. Policies to improve uptake should target those with no car access, especially those beyond walking distance from the nearest eye care provider.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Wright
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK .,Administrative Data Research Centre, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Dermot O'Reilly
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK.,Administrative Data Research Centre, Northern Ireland, UK
| | | | - Ruth E Hogg
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Leat SJ, Zecevic AA, Keeling A, Hileeto D, Labreche T, Brymer C. Prevalence of vision loss among hospital in-patients; a risk factor for falls? Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2018; 38:106-114. [PMID: 29265472 DOI: 10.1111/opo.12428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite poor vision being a risk factor for falls, current hospital policies and practices often do not include a vision assessment at patient admission or in the hospital's incident reporting system when a fall occurs. Our purpose was to document the prevalence of vision loss in hospital general medicine units to increase awareness of poor vision as a potential risk factor for falls that occur within the hospital, and inform future preventative practice. METHODS This cross-sectional study took place in medicine units of an acute care hospital. Participants were adult in-patients. Visual acuity (VA), contrast sensitivity and stereoacuity were measured, and patients were screened for field loss, extinction and neglect. RESULTS 115 participants took part (average age 67 ± 17, 48% female). Overall, 89% had a visual impairment defined as being outside the age-norms for one or more vision measure, 62% had low vision, and 36% had vision loss equivalent to legal blindness [VA equal to or poorer than 1.0 logMAR (6/60, 20/200) or ≥10x below age-norms]. There was a considerable discrepancy between the prevalence of low vision and the percentage of patients who reported an ocular diagnosis that would result in visual loss (30%). Ten patients fell during the study period, and of these 100% had visual impairment, 90% had low vision and 60% had vision loss equivalent to legal blindness, which compares to 58%, 22% and 9% for non-fallers. Similar high prevalences were found in those whose reason for admission to the hospital was a fall (92%, 63% and 33% respectively). CONCLUSIONS Vision loss has a high prevalence among patients in hospital medicine units, and is higher still among those who fall. Since vision loss may be a contributing factor to falls that occur in hospitals, implementing an assessment of vision at hospital admission would be useful to alert staff to those patients who are at risk for falls due to poor vision, so that preventative measures can be applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan J Leat
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | | | - Alexis Keeling
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Denise Hileeto
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Tammy Labreche
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
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Accessible Fall Prevention Interventions for Older Adults With Low Vision. TOPICS IN GERIATRIC REHABILITATION 2017. [DOI: 10.1097/tgr.0000000000000167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Bowen M, Edgar DF, Hancock B, Haque S, Shah R, Buchanan S, Iliffe S, Maskell S, Pickett J, Taylor JP, O’Leary N. The Prevalence of Visual Impairment in People with Dementia (the PrOVIDe study): a cross-sectional study of people aged 60–89 years with dementia and qualitative exploration of individual, carer and professional perspectives. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2016. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr04210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundThe prevalence of visual impairment (VI) and dementia increases with age and these conditions may coexist, but few UK data exist on VI among people with dementia.ObjectivesTo measure the prevalence of eye conditions causing VI in people with dementia and to identify/describe reasons for underdetection or inappropriate management.DesignStage 1 – cross-sectional prevalence study. Stage 2 – qualitative research exploring participant, carer and professional perspectives of eye care.SettingStage 1 – 20 NHS sites in six English regions. Stage 2 – six English regions.ParticipantsStage 1 – 708 participants with dementia (aged 60–89 years): 389 lived in the community (group 1) and 319 lived in care homes (group 2). Stage 2 – 119 participants.InterventionsStage 1 gathered eye examination data following domiciliary sight tests complying with General Ophthalmic Services requirements and professional guidelines. Cognitive impairment was assessed using the Standardised Mini-Mental State Examination (sMMSE) test, and functional ability and behaviour were assessed using the Bristol Activities of Daily Living Scale and Cambridge Behavioural Inventory – Revised. Stage 2 involved individual interviews (36 people with dementia and 11 care workers); and separate focus groups (34 optometrists; 38 family and professional carers).Main outcome measures.VI defined by visual acuity (VA) worse than 6/12 or worse than 6/18 measured before and after refraction.ResultsStage 1 – when participants wore their current spectacles, VI prevalence was 32.5% [95% confidence interval (CI) 28.7% to 36.5%] and 16.3% (95% CI 13.5% to 19.6%) for commonly used criteria for VI of VA worse than 6/12 and 6/18, respectively. Of those with VI, 44% (VA < 6/12) and 47% (VA < 6/18) were correctable with new spectacles. Almost 50% of remaining uncorrectable VI (VA < 6/12) was associated with cataract, and was, therefore, potentially remediable, and one-third was associated with macular degeneration. Uncorrected/undercorrected VI prevalence (VA < 6/12) was significantly higher in participants in care homes (odds ratio 2.19, 95% CI 1.30 to 3.73;p < 0.01) when adjusted for age, sex and sMMSE score. VA could not be measured in 2.6% of group 1 and 34.2% of group 2 participants (p < 0.01). The main eye examination elements (excluding visual fields) could be performed in > 80% of participants. There was no evidence that the management of VI in people with dementia differed from that in older people in general. Exploratory analysis suggested significant deficits in some vision-related aspects of function and behaviour in participants with VI. Stage 2 key messages – carers and care workers underestimated how much can be achieved in an eye examination. People with dementia and carers were unaware of domiciliary sight test availability. Improved communication is needed between optometrists and carers; optometrists should be informed of the person’s dementia. Tailoring eye examinations to individual needs includes allowing extra time. Optometrists wanted training and guidance about dementia. Correcting VI may improve the quality of life of people with dementia but should be weighed against the risks and burdens of undergoing examinations and cataract surgery on an individual basis.LimitationsSampling bias is possible owing to quota-sampling and response bias.ConclusionsThe prevalence of VI is disproportionately higher in people with dementia living in care homes. Almost 50% of presenting VI is correctable with spectacles, and more with cataract surgery. Areas for future research are the development of an eye-care pathway for people with dementia; assessment of the benefits of early cataract surgery; and research into the feasibility of specialist optometrists for older people.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Health Services and Delivery Research programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Bowen
- Research Department, College of Optometrists, London, UK
| | - David F Edgar
- Division of Optometry and Visual Science, City University London, London, UK
| | | | - Sayeed Haque
- Primary Care Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rakhee Shah
- Research Department, College of Optometrists, London, UK
- The Outside Clinic, Swindon, UK
| | - Sarah Buchanan
- Research Department, Thomas Pocklington Trust, London, UK
| | - Steve Iliffe
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Susan Maskell
- Public and participant involvement representative, Alzheimer’s Society Research Network, London, UK
| | - James Pickett
- Research Department, Alzheimer’s Society, London, UK
| | - John-Paul Taylor
- Institute for Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Neil O’Leary
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
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Supuk E, Alderson A, Davey CJ, Green C, Litvin N, Scally AJ, Elliott DB. Dizziness, but not falls rate, improves after routine cataract surgery: the role of refractive and spectacle changes. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2015; 36:183-90. [PMID: 26549158 PMCID: PMC4949987 DOI: 10.1111/opo.12243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To determine whether dizziness and falls rates change due to routine cataract surgery and to determine the influence of spectacle type and refractive factors. Methods Self‐reported dizziness and falls were determined in 287 patients (mean age of 76.5 ± 6.3 years, 55% females) before and after routine cataract surgery for the first (81, 28%), second (109, 38%) and both eyes (97, 34%). Dizziness was determined using the short‐form of the Dizziness Handicap Inventory. Six‐month falls rates were determined using self‐reported retrospective data. Results The number of patients with dizziness reduced significantly after cataract surgery (52% vs 38%; χ2 = 19.14,p < 0.001), but the reduction in the number of patients who fell in the 6‐months post surgery was not significant (23% vs 20%; χ2 = 0.87, p = 0.35). Dizziness improved after first eye surgery (49% vs 33%, p = 0.01) and surgery on both eyes (58% vs 35%, p < 0.001), but not after second eye surgery (52% vs 45%, p = 0.68). Multivariate logistic regression analyses found significant links between post‐operative falls and change in spectacle type (increased risk if switched into multifocal spectacles). Post‐operative dizziness was associated with changes in best eye visual acuity and changes in oblique astigmatic correction. Conclusions Dizziness is significantly reduced by first (or both) eye cataract surgery and this is linked with improvements in best eye visual acuity, although changes in oblique astigmatic correction increased dizziness. The lack of improvement in falls rate may be associated with switching into multifocal spectacle wear after surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Supuk
- Bradford School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Alison Alderson
- Bradford School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Christopher J Davey
- Bradford School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Clare Green
- Ophthalmology Department, Bradford Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Norman Litvin
- Ophthalmology Department, Bradford Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Andrew J Scally
- Faculty of Health Studies, University of Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - David B Elliott
- Bradford School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK
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Elliott DB, Foster RJ, Whitaker D, Scally AJ, Buckley JG. Analysis of lower limb movement to determine the effect of manipulating the appearance of stairs to improve safety: a linked series of laboratory-based, repeated measures studies. PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH 2015. [DOI: 10.3310/phr03080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundFalls on stairs are a common and dangerous problem for older people. This series of studies evaluated whether or not selected changes to the appearance of stairs could make them safer for older people to negotiate.ObjectivesTo determine the effect of (1) a step edge highlighter and its position and (2) an optimised horizontal–vertical (H–V) visual illusion placed on a step riser on gait safety during stair descent and ascent.DesignA series of studies using a repeated measures, laboratory-based design, investigating gait control and safety in independently mobile older people.SettingThe University of Bradford Vision and Mobility Laboratory.ParticipantsFit and healthy older people aged 60 years of age or more, independently mobile, reasonably active and with normal healthy eyes and corrected vision.InterventionsA step edge highlighter in a variety of offsets from the stair edge and an optimised H–V visual illusion placed on the stair riser. The H–V illusion was provided on a staircase by horizontal step edge highlighters on the tread edges and vertical stripes on the step risers.Main outcome measuresGait parameters that are important for safe stepping in ascent and descent, particularly toe clearance during stair ascent and heel clearance during stair descent.ResultsThe step edge highlighter increased the precision of heel clearance during stepping and its positioning relative to the tread edge determined the extent of heel clearance over the tread edge. Positioning the highlighter away from the tread edge, as is not uncommonly provided by friction strips, decreased heel clearance significantly and led to greater heel scuffs. Although psychophysics experiments suggested that higher spatial frequencies of the H–V illusion might provide greater toe clearance on stair ascent, gait trials showed similar increased toe clearances for all spatial frequencies. When a 12 cycle per step spatial frequency H–V illusion was used, toe clearance increases of approximately 1 cm (17.5%) occurred without any accompanying changes in other important gait parameters or stability measures.ConclusionsHigh-contrast tread edge highlighters present on steps and stairs and positioned flush with the edge of the tread or as near to this as possible should improve stair descent safety in older people. A H–V illusion positioned on the riser of a raised surface/walkway (e.g. kerbs) and/or the top and/or bottom of a stairway is likely to increase foot clearance over the associated step/stair edge, and appears not to lead to any decrement in postural stability. Thus, their use is likely to reduce trip risk and hence improve stair ascent safety. The effect of the step and stair modifications should be assessed in older people with visual impairment. The only other remaining assessment that could be made would be to assess fall prevalence on steps and stairs, perhaps in public buildings, with and without these modifications.FundingThe National Institute for Health Research Public Health Research programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Elliott
- Bradford School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | - Richard J Foster
- Bradford School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | - David Whitaker
- Bradford School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | - Andrew J Scally
- School of Allied Health Professions and Sport, Faculty of Health Studies, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | - John G Buckley
- Division of Medical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
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Loriaut P, Loriaut P, Boyer P, Massin P, Cochereau I. Visual Impairment and Hip Fractures: A Case-Control Study in Elderly Patients. Ophthalmic Res 2014; 52:212-6. [DOI: 10.1159/000362881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 04/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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The Glenn A. Fry award lecture 2013: blurred vision, spectacle correction, and falls in older adults. Optom Vis Sci 2014; 91:593-601. [PMID: 24845699 DOI: 10.1097/opx.0000000000000268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This article reviews the literature on how blurred vision contributes to falls, gait, and postural control and discusses how these are influenced by spectacle correction. Falls are common and represent a very serious health risk for older people. They are not random events as studies have shown that falls are linked to a range of intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors. Vision provides a significant input to postural control in addition to providing information about the size and position of hazards and obstacles in the travel pathway and allows us to safely negotiate steps and stairs. Many studies have shown that reduced vision is a significant risk factor for falls. However, randomized controlled trials of optometric interventions and cataract surgery have not shown the expected reduction in falls rate, which may be due to magnification changes (and thus vestibulo-ocular reflex gain) in those participants who have large changes in refractive correction. Epidemiological studies have also shown that progressive addition lens and bifocal wearers are twice as likely to fall as non-multifocal wearers, laboratory-based studies have shown safer adaptive gait with single-vision glasses than progressive addition lenses or bifocals, and a randomized controlled trial has shown that an additional pair of distance vision single-vision glasses for outdoor use can reduce falls rate. Clinical recommendations to help optometrists prevent their frail, older patients from falling are suggested.
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Roche S, Vogtle L, Warren M, O’Connor KA. Assessment of the Visual Status of Older Adults on an Orthopedic Unit. Am J Occup Ther 2014; 68:465-71. [DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2014.010231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
PURPOSE. To examine the visual status of a cohort of older adults on an orthopedic unit to determine their level of available vision to complete everyday activities in the hospital setting.
METHOD. A convenience sample of 50 people was recruited. A visual history was obtained, and participants’ glasses were inspected. Distance acuity, reading acuity, and contrast sensitivity were assessed using standardized screening charts.
RESULTS. Of participants, 26% did not have their glasses with them until prompted, and 85% had glasses in poor condition. When tested wearing their habitual correction, 6% had low vision, 2% were blind, 41% had reading acuities worse than 20/25, and 28% had contrast sensitivity deficits.
CONCLUSION. Visual impairment is prevalent in older adults, yet visual function is not routinely screened in hospitals. Occupational therapists should routinely inquire about patients’ visual status, inspect their glasses, and encourage regular eye examinations. Failure to address vision could lead to inaccurate evaluation results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Roche
- Sheila Roche, MS, BSc. (Cur. Occ.), is Senior Occupational Therapist, South Infirmary–Victoria University Hospital, Old Blackrock Road, Cork, Ireland;
| | - Laura Vogtle
- Laura Vogtle, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, is Professor, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Mary Warren
- Mary Warren, PhD, OTR/L, SCLV, FAOTA, is Associate Professor, University of Alabama at Birmingham
| | - Kieran A. O’Connor
- Kieran A. O’Connor, MSc, MB, FRCPI, is Consultant Physician in Geriatric Medicine, Mercy University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
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Wang CW, Chan CLW, Chi I. Overview of Quality of Life Research in Older People with Visual Impairment. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.4236/aar.2014.32014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Shickle D, Griffin M. Why don't older adults in England go to have their eyes examined? Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2013; 34:38-45. [DOI: 10.1111/opo.12100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Darren Shickle
- Academic Unit of Public Health; University of Leeds; Leeds UK
| | - Marcus Griffin
- Academic Unit of Public Health; University of Leeds; Leeds UK
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Johnson L, Supuk E, Buckley JG, Elliott DB. Effects of induced astigmatism on foot placement strategies when stepping onto a raised surface. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63351. [PMID: 23717414 PMCID: PMC3661665 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2013] [Accepted: 04/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Large changes in spectacle prescription can increase falls risk in older people. We investigated the effect of induced astigmatism (a common cause of distorted or blurred vision in older people) on locomotor stepping patterns to determine whether the orientation of astigmatic changes could have differential effects on gait safety when negotiating steps and stairs. METHODS 10 older adults (mean age 76.0±6.4 years) walked up to and stepped onto a raised block whilst wearing their spectacle prescription and when blurred with ±3.00D cylinders at axes 45°, 90°, 135° and 180°. Gait measurements included foot placement before the block, toe clearance over the block edge and foot placement on the block. RESULTS Induced astigmatism with axes at 90°, providing magnification in the horizontal meridian only, caused no change in stepping pattern. Induced astigmatism with axes at 180° caused foot placement changes in the anterior or posterior direction according to whether magnification was positive or negative in the vertical meridian (block perceived higher or lower respectively). Induced astigmatism with axes oblique at 45° and 135° (causing the block to be perceived as a parallelogram sloping downwards either to the right or left) caused gait changes in the anterior and posterior, vertical and lateral directions. Changes in lateral foot placement appeared to be an attempt to maintain constant foot clearance levels over the block edge by stepping over the perceived 'lower' side of the 'sloping' block. CONCLUSIONS Astigmatic changes with oblique axes had the greatest effect on gait. Clinicians, including optometrists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and nurses should counsel older patients about the effects of astigmatism on gait safety. Furthermore, partial prescribing of astigmatic corrections should be considered to reduce the risk of falling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Johnson
- School of Health Studies, University of Bradford, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Elvira Supuk
- Bradford School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Bradford, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | - John G. Buckley
- School of Engineering, Design and Technology, University of Bradford, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
| | - David B Elliott
- Bradford School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Bradford, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Grue EV, Kirkevold M, Mowinchel P, Ranhoff AH. Sensory impairment in hip-fracture patients 65 years or older and effects of hearing/vision interventions on fall frequency. J Multidiscip Healthc 2008; 2:1-11. [PMID: 21197343 PMCID: PMC3004562 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s4126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Examine the effect of nursing interventions to improve vision and hearing, systematic assessment, and referral to sensory specialists on falling. Methods: Controlled intervention trial targeting hip fracture patients, 65 years and older, living at home and having problems seeing/reading regular print (VI) or hearing normal speech (HI). Intervention group = 200, control group = 131. The InterRAI-AcuteCare (RAI-AC) and the Combined-Serious-Sensory-Impairment interview guide (KAS-Screen) were used. Follow-up telephone calls were done every third month for one year. Results: Mean age was 84.2 years, 79.8% were female, and 76.7% lived alone. HI was detected in 80.7% and VI in 59.8%. Falling was more frequent among the intervention group (P = 0.003) and they also more often moved to a nursing home (P < 0.001) and were dependent walking up stairs (P = 0.003). Conclusions: This study could not document the effect of intervention on falling, possibly because of different base line characteristics (more females, P = 0.018, and more living alone P = 0.011 in the intervention group), differences in nursing care between subjects, and different risk factors. Interventions to improve sensory function remain important in rehabilitation, but have to be studied further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Else V Grue
- Diakonhjemmet University College, Department of Research and Development, Oslo, Norway
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