Some form of vision problem is reported by 17% of persons age 45 and older, with the prevalence increasing to 26% of those age 75 and older. Vision rehabilitation services seek to ameliorate the negative consequences that a late-life vision impairment may have on an individual's functional and psychosocial status. An evaluation of a service program for older visually impaired adults was conducted to determine predictors of more positive outcomes. Interviews were conducted with consumers before and after service delivery. The interview included measures of psychosocial and functional status, social support and activity participation. Data were collected from 509 consumers age 55+. In order to determine predictors of psychosocial and functional status, hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted for each of the major outcome variables (adaptation, sadness, life satisfaction, self-efficacy and functional ability). After controlling for Time 1 status, demographic and health characteristics (step 1), the independent contribution of social support/ activity participation was examined (step 2). Variables entered in the first step accounted for at least 36% of the variance in each outcome variables, with health rating emerging as a significant predictor in all outcomes except adaptation. Functional status also emerged as a significant predictor for each outcome. After accounting for control variables, social support/activity variables contributed a significant amount of variance for self-efficacy and functional status. Self-efficacy was predicted by having available help, using more community resources, and participating in more social activities. Functional ability was predicted by having available help. Study limitations and practice implications are discussed.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, attendees will be able to: 1. Describe the functional and psychosocial outcomes of a vision rehabilitation program for older adults; 2. Identify factors associated with success following vision rehabilitation services
Keywords: Aging, Outcomes Research
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.