Materiały źródłowe

• #1 Blindness (Vision Impairment): Types, Causes and Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24446-blindness

  Blindness can result from infections, accidents, genetic conditions and other diseases. Types of blindness can range from no vision at all to seeing shapes. Some types can be prevented or cured, but other types cant be treated. […] Blindness is the inability to see or a lack of vision. In the most severe cases, theres an inability to see even light. It also means that you cant correct your vision with eyeglasses, contact lenses, eye drops or other medical therapy, or surgery. Sudden vision loss is an emergency. Its important to seek immediate medical help. […] You may also hear about preventable blindness or avoidable blindness. These terms refer to blindness that happens to people that have a diseases that is treatable but they never receive care. This often happens because of a lack of access to eye care or healthcare. For instance, people who never receive care for diabetes may develop diabetes-related retinopathy. People who dont receive care for hypertension may develop hypertensive retinopathy.

• #2 Blindness and vision loss: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock

  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003040.htm

  Blindness is a lack of vision. It may also refer to a loss of vision that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. […] Vision loss refers to the partial or complete loss of vision. This vision loss may happen suddenly or over a period of time. […] When you have low vision, you may have trouble driving, reading, or doing small tasks such as sewing or making crafts. You can make changes in your home and routines that help you stay safe and independent. Many services will provide you with the training and support you need to live independently, including the use of low vision aids. […] Sudden vision loss is always an emergency, even if you have not completely lost vision. You should never ignore vision loss, thinking it will get better. […] Your health care provider will do a complete eye exam. The treatment will depend on the cause of the vision loss. […] For long-term vision loss, see a low-vision specialist, who can help you learn to care for yourself and live a full life.

• #3

  https://www.who.int/health-topics/blindness-and-vision-loss

  Eye conditions are remarkably common. Those who live long enough will experience at least one eye condition during their lifetime. […] Globally, at least 1 billion people have a near or distance vision impairment that could have been prevented or has yet to be addressed. In the absence of timely detection, reduced or absent eyesight can have long-term personal and economic effects. Vision impairment affects people of all ages, with the majority being over the age of 50. Young children with early onset severe vision impairment can experience lower levels of educational achievement, and in adults it often affects quality of life through lower productivity, decreased workforce participation and high rates of depression. […] Vision impairment and blindness impact the life of people everywhere. In low- and middle-income settings the burden of vision impairment can be even greater due to fewer opportunities to access the most essential eye care services.

• #4

  https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/blindness-and-visual-impairment

  Globally, at least 2.2 billion people have a near or distance vision impairment. In at least 1 billion of these, vision impairment could have been prevented or is yet to be addressed. […] Vision impairment occurs when an eye condition affects the visual system and its vision functions. Everyone, if they live long enough, will experience at least one eye condition in their lifetime that will require appropriate care. […] Vision impairment has serious consequences for the individual across the life course. Many of these consequences can be mitigated by timely access to quality eye care. […] Vision rehabilitation is very effective in improving functioning for people with an irreversible vision loss that can be caused by eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, consequences of trauma, and age-related macular degeneration.

• #5 Focusing on Blindness – Versant Health

  https://versanthealth.com/blog/focusing-on-blindness/

  According to the World Health Organization, there are more than 2.2 billion individuals worldwide with vision impairment or blindness. In the U.S. alone, blindness or low vision affects more than 4.2 million Americans. […] Visual impairment is a major global health issue. Over 80% of visual impairment is preventable through access to basic health resources such as proper vision care, glasses, and education. […] Blindness is a lack of vision or the inability to see light. Legal blindness is considered vision that is worse than 20/200 with the use of glasses or contact lenses. […] Vision impairment or partial blindness can range from mild to severe and are considered having limited vision even with the use of eyeglasses, contact lenses, medicine or surgery. […] Blindness can occur suddenly or over time. Often there is no pain associated with blindness. Symptoms of low vision may range from trouble focusing, glare, or difficulty perceiving light.

• #6 Low Vision and Vision Rehabilitation | AOA

  https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/low-vision-and-vision-rehab

  Few people are totally without sight. Most people who are classified as „blind” actually have remaining sight. Thanks to developments in low vision rehabilitation, they can enhance their visual function and improve their quality of life. […] Anyone with uncorrectable, reduced vision is visually impaired. […] In the United States, any person with vision that cannot be corrected to better than 20/200 in the best eye, or who has 20 degrees or less of visual field remaining, is considered legally blind. […] Visual impairments take many forms and exist in varying degrees. Visual acuity alone is not a good predictor of a person’s vision problems. […] Each type of low-vision problem requires a different therapeutic approach. […] Vision rehabilitation maximizes visual functioning, so the patient can achieve their visual goals and improve the quality of their life.

• #7 Blindness | Low Vision | MedlinePlus

  https://medlineplus.gov/visionimpairmentandblindness.html

  Vision impairment is the loss of vision. It includes blindness, which means that you have lost all or most of your sight. It also includes low vision, which means you have some vision, but the vision loss makes it hard to do everyday activities. You may have trouble reading, shopping, cooking, writing, and watching TV. Low vision can’t be fixed with glasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery. […] Low vision is permanent. Glasses, medicine, and surgery can’t cure low vision. But sometimes they can improve your vision, help you do everyday activities more easily, or keep your remaining vision. […] Vision rehabilitation teaches you how to live with your vision loss. It may include: Showing you how to use a magnifying device or screen readers for reading, Helping you set up your home so you can move around more easily, Employment and job training, Assistive devices, like lighting and reading stands.

• #8 Advancing Health Equity: Social Determinants and Vision Loss | Vision and Eye Health | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/health-equity/index.html

  The leading causes of blindness and vision impairment are glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts. […] The risk for eye disease varies by race/ethnicity, age, and sex. In addition, having a chronic health condition (such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease) can increase risk. Behavioral factors such as smoking and being physically inactive also increase the risk of vision loss. […] Research shows that SDOH are also linked to vision loss. A recent study found that people who reported having visual difficulty were more likely to have a lower education level. […] People with vision impairment are also more likely to have health care coverage through Medicaid. […] Addressing these barriers is key to eliminating health disparities and reaching vision health equity.

• #9

  https://www.who.int/health-topics/blindness-and-vision-loss

  Cataracts and uncorrected refractive errors are estimated to be the leading causes of vision impairment; however, other causes for vision impairment cannot be ignored. Age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, long standing systemic conditions like diabetes causing diabetic retinopathy, infectious diseases of the eye and trauma to the eye are all equally important causes for vision impairment that need to be addressed. […] Eye conditions that can be targeted effectively with preventive strategies include congenital and acquired eye conditions, myopia, ocular trauma, and ocular infections and inflammations. […] Importantly, the prevention and management of systemic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, can also be effective in reducing the risk of ocular diseases. […] Treatment and care for many eye conditions, such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, pterygium, amblyopia, strabismus and retinopathy of prematurity require long-term monitoring to control the progression of the condition.

• #10 Common Causes of Vision Loss in Elderly Patients | AAFP

  https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/1999/0701/p99.html

  Glaucoma comprises a group of disorders characterized by glaucomatous optic nerve damage and visual field loss. It is a significant cause of blindness in the United States and is the most common cause of blindness among black Americans. […] Cataract is a common cause of vision impairment in the elderly and the most common cause of blindness worldwide. […] Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of new blindness among middle-aged Americans. It is also a significant cause of vision morbidity in the elderly population.

• #11 4 Glaucoma Nursing Care Plans – Nurseslabs

  https://nurseslabs.com/glaucoma-nursing-care-plans/

  Assess for the following subjective and objective data: Gradual loss of peripheral vision, Increased intraocular pressure, Blurred or hazy vision, Halos around lights, Vision loss or blindness, Headaches or eye strain. […] Goals and expected outcomes may include: The client will maintain the current visual field/acuity without further loss. The client will verbalize understanding of the condition, prognosis, and treatment. […] Glaucoma is characterized by increased intraocular pressure, which can lead to changes in visual sensory perception. Patients with glaucoma may experience vision loss, particularly in the peripheral areas, and have difficulty seeing in low-light conditions. Proper management of intraocular pressure is essential to preserve visual function and prevent further damage to the optic nerve.

• #12 Table 7.2, [Common Visual Conditions]. – Nursing Fundamentals – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK591813/table/ch7sensory.T.common_visual_conditions/

  Macular degeneration is the leading cause of legal blindness in individuals over 60 years of age. […] Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in adults diagnosed with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. […] Patients with diabetes are encouraged to receive annual eye exams so that retinopathy can be discovered and treated early. Treatments, such as laser treatment that can help shrink blood vessels, injections that can reduce swelling, or surgery, can prevent permanent vision loss. […] Presbyopia starts in the early to mid-forties and worsens with aging. It can lead to significant visual impairment but does not usually cause blindness.

• #13 Table 7.2, [Common Visual Conditions]. – Nursing Fundamentals – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK591813/table/ch7sensory.T.common_visual_conditions/

  Macular degeneration is the leading cause of legal blindness in individuals over 60 years of age. […] Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in adults diagnosed with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. […] Patients with diabetes are encouraged to receive annual eye exams so that retinopathy can be discovered and treated early. Treatments, such as laser treatment that can help shrink blood vessels, injections that can reduce swelling, or surgery, can prevent permanent vision loss. […] Presbyopia starts in the early to mid-forties and worsens with aging. It can lead to significant visual impairment but does not usually cause blindness.

• #14

  https://www.who.int/health-topics/blindness-and-vision-loss

  Cataracts and uncorrected refractive errors are estimated to be the leading causes of vision impairment; however, other causes for vision impairment cannot be ignored. Age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, long standing systemic conditions like diabetes causing diabetic retinopathy, infectious diseases of the eye and trauma to the eye are all equally important causes for vision impairment that need to be addressed. […] Eye conditions that can be targeted effectively with preventive strategies include congenital and acquired eye conditions, myopia, ocular trauma, and ocular infections and inflammations. […] Importantly, the prevention and management of systemic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, can also be effective in reducing the risk of ocular diseases. […] Treatment and care for many eye conditions, such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, pterygium, amblyopia, strabismus and retinopathy of prematurity require long-term monitoring to control the progression of the condition.

• #15 Blindness (Vision Impairment): Types, Causes and Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24446-blindness

  Blindness can result from infections, accidents, genetic conditions and other diseases. Types of blindness can range from no vision at all to seeing shapes. Some types can be prevented or cured, but other types cant be treated. […] Blindness is the inability to see or a lack of vision. In the most severe cases, theres an inability to see even light. It also means that you cant correct your vision with eyeglasses, contact lenses, eye drops or other medical therapy, or surgery. Sudden vision loss is an emergency. Its important to seek immediate medical help. […] You may also hear about preventable blindness or avoidable blindness. These terms refer to blindness that happens to people that have a diseases that is treatable but they never receive care. This often happens because of a lack of access to eye care or healthcare. For instance, people who never receive care for diabetes may develop diabetes-related retinopathy. People who dont receive care for hypertension may develop hypertensive retinopathy.

• #16

  https://www.who.int/health-topics/blindness-and-vision-loss

  Cataracts and uncorrected refractive errors are estimated to be the leading causes of vision impairment; however, other causes for vision impairment cannot be ignored. Age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, long standing systemic conditions like diabetes causing diabetic retinopathy, infectious diseases of the eye and trauma to the eye are all equally important causes for vision impairment that need to be addressed. […] Eye conditions that can be targeted effectively with preventive strategies include congenital and acquired eye conditions, myopia, ocular trauma, and ocular infections and inflammations. […] Importantly, the prevention and management of systemic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, can also be effective in reducing the risk of ocular diseases. […] Treatment and care for many eye conditions, such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, pterygium, amblyopia, strabismus and retinopathy of prematurity require long-term monitoring to control the progression of the condition.

• #17 Blindness (Vision Impairment): Types, Causes and Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24446-blindness

  Blindness can result from infections, accidents, genetic conditions and other diseases. Types of blindness can range from no vision at all to seeing shapes. Some types can be prevented or cured, but other types cant be treated. […] Blindness is the inability to see or a lack of vision. In the most severe cases, theres an inability to see even light. It also means that you cant correct your vision with eyeglasses, contact lenses, eye drops or other medical therapy, or surgery. Sudden vision loss is an emergency. Its important to seek immediate medical help. […] You may also hear about preventable blindness or avoidable blindness. These terms refer to blindness that happens to people that have a diseases that is treatable but they never receive care. This often happens because of a lack of access to eye care or healthcare. For instance, people who never receive care for diabetes may develop diabetes-related retinopathy. People who dont receive care for hypertension may develop hypertensive retinopathy.

• #18 Advancing Health Equity: Social Determinants and Vision Loss | Vision and Eye Health | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/health-equity/index.html

  People with less than a high school education are less likely to have had an eye care visit in the last year compared to people with more than a high school education. […] Neighborhood safety can impact physical activity, weight management, blood sugar levels, and stress. These are all factors that affect someone’s risk for diabetes, which can lead to vision loss. […] People living with a disability such as vision impairment or blindness report having more problems accessing care. Common issues include cost, insurance coverage, transportation, and refusal of services by providers. People with vision impairment are also more likely to be uninsured compared to people without. […] Addressing these barriers is key to eliminating health disparities and reaching vision health equity. […] Vision loss ranks among the top 10 causes of disability in the United States. About 7 million Americans have vision impairment, including 1 million who are blind. These numbers are expected to double by 2050 due to population aging and increases in chronic diseases that can lead to vision loss.

• #19 Advancing Health Equity: Social Determinants and Vision Loss | Vision and Eye Health | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/health-equity/index.html

  The leading causes of blindness and vision impairment are glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts. […] The risk for eye disease varies by race/ethnicity, age, and sex. In addition, having a chronic health condition (such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease) can increase risk. Behavioral factors such as smoking and being physically inactive also increase the risk of vision loss. […] Research shows that SDOH are also linked to vision loss. A recent study found that people who reported having visual difficulty were more likely to have a lower education level. […] People with vision impairment are also more likely to have health care coverage through Medicaid. […] Addressing these barriers is key to eliminating health disparities and reaching vision health equity.

• #20 18.1 Disorders of the Eye – Medical-Surgical Nursing | OpenStax

  https://openstax.org/books/medical-surgical-nursing/pages/18-1-disorders-of-the-eye

  Nurses need to possess knowledge about ocular disorders such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, as these conditions can significantly impair visual acuity and affect a patient’s quality of life. By recognizing the signs and symptoms, nurses can promptly refer patients for specialized ophthalmic evaluation and treatment, promoting early intervention and preventing irreversible vision loss. […] A comprehensive eye examination is important for early detection, assessment, and management of ocular disorders. The first step in an eye examination is to obtain a thorough patient history. […] Vision impairment encompasses a range of conditions that can significantly affect an individual’s quality of life and independence. Although an ophthalmologist must make a detailed assessment of a patients vision, the nurse plays a crucial role in understanding and managing vision impairment. Nurses should understand the common causes of blindness, including cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment.

• #21 2 Macular Degeneration Nursing Care Plans – Nurseslabs

  https://nurseslabs.com/macular-degeneration-nursing-care-plans/

  Assess for the following subjective and objective data: Blurred central vision, Distorted or wavy lines, Dark or empty areas in the central vision, Difficulty recognizing faces or reading fine print, Decreased color perception, Visual hallucinations (rare), Straight lines appear crooked or wavy. […] Following a thorough assessment, a nursing diagnosis is formulated to specifically address the challenges associated with macular degeneration based on the nurses clinical judgement and understanding of the patients unique health condition. […] Goals and expected outcomes may include: The patient will regain the optimal vision possible and will adapt to permanent visual changes, The patient will be able to verbalize understanding of visual loss and diseases of the eyes, The patient will be able to regain vision to the maximum possible extent with the surgical procedure, The patient will be able to deal with the potential for permanent visual loss, The patient will maintain a safe environment with no injury noted, The patient will be able to use adaptive devices to compensate for visual loss, The patient will be compliant with the instructions given and will be able to notify the physician of emergency symptoms, The patient will be free of injury and will be able to perform activities within the parameters of sensory limitation, The patient will be able to be free of injury, The patient and/or family will be able to modify the environment to ensure patient safety.

• #22 18.1 Disorders of the Eye – Medical-Surgical Nursing | OpenStax

  https://openstax.org/books/medical-surgical-nursing/pages/18-1-disorders-of-the-eye

  Nurses need to possess knowledge about ocular disorders such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, as these conditions can significantly impair visual acuity and affect a patient’s quality of life. By recognizing the signs and symptoms, nurses can promptly refer patients for specialized ophthalmic evaluation and treatment, promoting early intervention and preventing irreversible vision loss. […] A comprehensive eye examination is important for early detection, assessment, and management of ocular disorders. The first step in an eye examination is to obtain a thorough patient history. […] Vision impairment encompasses a range of conditions that can significantly affect an individual’s quality of life and independence. Although an ophthalmologist must make a detailed assessment of a patients vision, the nurse plays a crucial role in understanding and managing vision impairment. Nurses should understand the common causes of blindness, including cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment.

• #23 2 Macular Degeneration Nursing Care Plans – Nurseslabs

  https://nurseslabs.com/macular-degeneration-nursing-care-plans/

  Assess for the following subjective and objective data: Blurred central vision, Distorted or wavy lines, Dark or empty areas in the central vision, Difficulty recognizing faces or reading fine print, Decreased color perception, Visual hallucinations (rare), Straight lines appear crooked or wavy. […] Following a thorough assessment, a nursing diagnosis is formulated to specifically address the challenges associated with macular degeneration based on the nurses clinical judgement and understanding of the patients unique health condition. […] Goals and expected outcomes may include: The patient will regain the optimal vision possible and will adapt to permanent visual changes, The patient will be able to verbalize understanding of visual loss and diseases of the eyes, The patient will be able to regain vision to the maximum possible extent with the surgical procedure, The patient will be able to deal with the potential for permanent visual loss, The patient will maintain a safe environment with no injury noted, The patient will be able to use adaptive devices to compensate for visual loss, The patient will be compliant with the instructions given and will be able to notify the physician of emergency symptoms, The patient will be free of injury and will be able to perform activities within the parameters of sensory limitation, The patient will be able to be free of injury, The patient and/or family will be able to modify the environment to ensure patient safety.

• #24 Nursing Care Plan for Macular Degeneration | Free NURSING.com Courses

  https://nursing.com/lesson/nursing-care-plan-for-macular-degeneration

  Understand the disease and its management. […] Changes in vision, such as blurred or distorted vision. […] Difficulty adapting to low light levels. […] Problems recognizing faces or reading. […] Patients perception of their ability to perform daily activities. […] Monitor the severity of vision loss. […] Assess the impact of vision loss on daily activities and quality of life. […] Identify potential safety hazards in the patients environment due to vision loss. […] Disturbed Sensory Perception: Visual related to macular degeneration. […] Risk for Injury related to decreased visual acuity. […] Knowledge Deficit related to the disease process and self-care strategies. […] Risk for Social Isolation related to vision impairment. […] Visual Rehabilitation: Refer to low-vision rehabilitation services and provide resources for visual aids.

• #25 Loss of Vision: Nursing Diagnosis and Treatment | Free Essay Example

  https://studycorgi.com/loss-of-vision-nursing-diagnosis-and-treatment/

  Loss of vision is associated with a number of adverse psychological effects. When identified, these effects can be addressed by nursing interventions. The following paper presents two nursing care plans based on nursing diagnoses related to vision loss. […] The first nursing diagnosis is powerlessness/hopelessness related to Illness-related regimen and unpredictability of the disease. Therefore, a teaching plan pertinent to it will include information regarding the progression of the disease. Specifically, the patient should be informed on the core causes of vision loss, common symptoms accompanying the condition, possible adverse effects, available treatments, and long-term consequences. […] This aspect of the plan will provide the patient with the necessary understanding of the underlying physiological processes and, by extension, reduce the unpredictability of the disease.

• #26 2 Macular Degeneration Nursing Care Plans – Nurseslabs

  https://nurseslabs.com/macular-degeneration-nursing-care-plans/

  Use this nursing care plan and management guide to provide care for patients with macular degeneration. Enhance your understanding of nursing assessment, interventions, goals, and nursing diagnosis, all specifically tailored to address the unique needs of individuals with macular degeneration. […] Nursing management of macular degeneration involves educating the patient about the condition, its progression, and the importance of regular eye exams. Nurses can also provide support in managing visual impairments through strategies such as providing low-vision aids, promoting adequate lighting, and referring patients to vision rehabilitation services. […] The following are the nursing priorities for patients with macular degeneration: Recognize and assess macular degeneration, Monitor visual changes, Educate patients about macular degeneration, Provide support for optimizing visual function.

• #27 Managing the care of patients who have visual impairment | Nursing Times

  https://www.nursingtimes.net/primary-care/managing-the-care-of-patients-who-have-visual-impairment-06-01-2004/

  Helping them to regain some control over their condition, or the underlying systemic disease causing it, may be the way to help to restore their self-esteem and confidence. […] Providing these patients with information about low-vision aids such as talking books, large-print reading materials, small hand-held magnifiers, and telescopic devices can facilitate their adaptation to visual loss and the utilisation of rehabilitation strategies. […] The application of a patient-centred model underpinned by the concept of needs has several implications for practice. […] Meeting individual needs through effectively managed care may help to make a difference to patients with visual impairment. […] Nurses who have a knowledge and understanding of ocular pathology and the nature of visual impairment may be able to provide the effective communication and care management skills required to meet the special needs of patients who have visual impairment, their families and significant others.

• #28 2 Macular Degeneration Nursing Care Plans – Nurseslabs

  https://nurseslabs.com/macular-degeneration-nursing-care-plans/

  Assess for the following subjective and objective data: Blurred central vision, Distorted or wavy lines, Dark or empty areas in the central vision, Difficulty recognizing faces or reading fine print, Decreased color perception, Visual hallucinations (rare), Straight lines appear crooked or wavy. […] Following a thorough assessment, a nursing diagnosis is formulated to specifically address the challenges associated with macular degeneration based on the nurses clinical judgement and understanding of the patients unique health condition. […] Goals and expected outcomes may include: The patient will regain the optimal vision possible and will adapt to permanent visual changes, The patient will be able to verbalize understanding of visual loss and diseases of the eyes, The patient will be able to regain vision to the maximum possible extent with the surgical procedure, The patient will be able to deal with the potential for permanent visual loss, The patient will maintain a safe environment with no injury noted, The patient will be able to use adaptive devices to compensate for visual loss, The patient will be compliant with the instructions given and will be able to notify the physician of emergency symptoms, The patient will be free of injury and will be able to perform activities within the parameters of sensory limitation, The patient will be able to be free of injury, The patient and/or family will be able to modify the environment to ensure patient safety.

• #29 4 Glaucoma Nursing Care Plans – Nurseslabs

  https://nurseslabs.com/glaucoma-nursing-care-plans/

  Assess for the following subjective and objective data: Gradual loss of peripheral vision, Increased intraocular pressure, Blurred or hazy vision, Halos around lights, Vision loss or blindness, Headaches or eye strain. […] Goals and expected outcomes may include: The client will maintain the current visual field/acuity without further loss. The client will verbalize understanding of the condition, prognosis, and treatment. […] Glaucoma is characterized by increased intraocular pressure, which can lead to changes in visual sensory perception. Patients with glaucoma may experience vision loss, particularly in the peripheral areas, and have difficulty seeing in low-light conditions. Proper management of intraocular pressure is essential to preserve visual function and prevent further damage to the optic nerve.

• #30 Table 7.3b, [Nursing Interventions to Address Sensory Alterations[]]. – Nursing Fundamentals – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK591813/table/ch7sensory.T.nursing_interventions_to_ad/

  Nursing Interventions to Address Sensory Alterations […] Impaired Vision Ensure that patients have access to their glasses or contacts that are cleaned properly and have a current prescription. Provide magnifying glasses if needed. Identify yourself whenever entering the room. Monitor functional implications of diminished vision. Provide adequate room lighting. Minimize glare (i.e., offer sunglasses or draw the window covering). Describe the environment to the patient as needed. Avoid rearranging the environment. Maintain an uncluttered environment and remove hazards such as scatter rugs and oxygen tubing when possible. Provide verbal explanations of the location of items or food. Provide reading materials in large print, as needed. Apply labels to frequently used items (e.g., mark medication bottles using high-contrasting colors). Encourage and assist in arranging annual eye exams, including screening for glaucoma. […] […] Sensory Deprivation Provide meaningful stimuli such as the patients choice of television, radio, reading material, calendars, photos of family members, and pets. Provide social interaction as appropriate; encourage family members/caregivers to engage in meaningful conversations with individuals.

• #31 Nursing Care Plan for Macular Degeneration | Free NURSING.com Courses

  https://nursing.com/lesson/nursing-care-plan-for-macular-degeneration

  Understand the disease and its management. […] Changes in vision, such as blurred or distorted vision. […] Difficulty adapting to low light levels. […] Problems recognizing faces or reading. […] Patients perception of their ability to perform daily activities. […] Monitor the severity of vision loss. […] Assess the impact of vision loss on daily activities and quality of life. […] Identify potential safety hazards in the patients environment due to vision loss. […] Disturbed Sensory Perception: Visual related to macular degeneration. […] Risk for Injury related to decreased visual acuity. […] Knowledge Deficit related to the disease process and self-care strategies. […] Risk for Social Isolation related to vision impairment. […] Visual Rehabilitation: Refer to low-vision rehabilitation services and provide resources for visual aids.

• #32 Care of Patients with Eye and Vision Problems | Nurse Key

  https://nursekey.com/care-of-patients-with-eye-and-vision-problems/

  1. Use aseptic technique when performing an eye examination or instilling drugs into the eye. […] 2. Apply the principles of infection control when caring for a patient with an eye infection. […] 3. Orient the patient with reduced vision to his or her immediate environment. […] 4. Ensure that all members of the health care team are aware of a patients visual limitations and need for assistance. […] 5. Teach all people, especially those older than 40 years, to have an annual eye examination including measurement of intraocular pressure. […] 6. Teach patients and family members how to correctly instill ophthalmic drops and ointment into the eye. […] 7. Teach the patient and family how to alter the home environment for patient safety. […] 8. Teach patients and family members about what to expect during procedures to correct vision and eye problems.

• #33 Care of Patients with Eye and Vision Problems | Nurse Key

  https://nursekey.com/care-of-patients-with-eye-and-vision-problems/

  1. Use aseptic technique when performing an eye examination or instilling drugs into the eye. […] 2. Apply the principles of infection control when caring for a patient with an eye infection. […] 3. Orient the patient with reduced vision to his or her immediate environment. […] 4. Ensure that all members of the health care team are aware of a patients visual limitations and need for assistance. […] 5. Teach all people, especially those older than 40 years, to have an annual eye examination including measurement of intraocular pressure. […] 6. Teach patients and family members how to correctly instill ophthalmic drops and ointment into the eye. […] 7. Teach the patient and family how to alter the home environment for patient safety. […] 8. Teach patients and family members about what to expect during procedures to correct vision and eye problems.

• #34 Low Vision and Vision Rehabilitation | AOA

  https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/low-vision-and-vision-rehab

  Few people are totally without sight. Most people who are classified as „blind” actually have remaining sight. Thanks to developments in low vision rehabilitation, they can enhance their visual function and improve their quality of life. […] Anyone with uncorrectable, reduced vision is visually impaired. […] In the United States, any person with vision that cannot be corrected to better than 20/200 in the best eye, or who has 20 degrees or less of visual field remaining, is considered legally blind. […] Visual impairments take many forms and exist in varying degrees. Visual acuity alone is not a good predictor of a person’s vision problems. […] Each type of low-vision problem requires a different therapeutic approach. […] Vision rehabilitation maximizes visual functioning, so the patient can achieve their visual goals and improve the quality of their life.

• #35

  https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/blindness-and-visual-impairment

  Globally, at least 2.2 billion people have a near or distance vision impairment. In at least 1 billion of these, vision impairment could have been prevented or is yet to be addressed. […] Vision impairment occurs when an eye condition affects the visual system and its vision functions. Everyone, if they live long enough, will experience at least one eye condition in their lifetime that will require appropriate care. […] Vision impairment has serious consequences for the individual across the life course. Many of these consequences can be mitigated by timely access to quality eye care. […] Vision rehabilitation is very effective in improving functioning for people with an irreversible vision loss that can be caused by eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, consequences of trauma, and age-related macular degeneration.

• #36 Low Vision and Vision Rehabilitation | AOA

  https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/low-vision-and-vision-rehab

  A patient’s individual rehabilitation plan may include prescription glasses or contact lenses, optical and electronic magnification devices, assistive technology, glare control with therapeutic filters, contrast enhancement, eccentric viewing, visual field enhancement, non-optical options and referral for additional services with other professionals. […] Some doctors of optometry specialize in low-vision rehabilitation. They examine and provide rehabilitation of patients with visual impairments. […] Low vision rehabilitation is the standard of care for people that have vision loss. […] If you, or someone you know, suffers from a vision impairment, ask your doctor of optometry about low vision rehabilitation. […] A doctor of optometry who provides low-vision rehabilitative services can help people with low vision regain their independence and improve their quality of life. […] People with low vision can learn a variety of techniques to help them perform daily activities with their remaining vision.

• #37 Low Vision: Causes, Characteristics, Treatment & Prevention

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8585-low-vision

  Treatment for low vision is called vision rehabilitation. The goal of the treatment is to maximize your vision as much as possible and otherwise help you live as independently as possible with the vision you have. This may involve a wide variety of resources. […] Based on the results of your exam, a low vision specialist will design a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific difficulties and needs. Theyll offer resources and recommendations to help you adapt and optimize your quality of life. […] You might benefit from a prescription for glasses or contact lenses, optical magnifiers or telescopes, electronic magnifiers and screen readers, large print and high contrast products, voice-to-text and audio reading technology, and audible home devices. […] You might also benefit from occupational therapy to learn new ways to perform tasks, a mobility specialist to help you learn to get around, a rehabilitation instructor to teach you independent living skills, special education or vocational services, counseling or psychotherapy to maintain your mental health, and support groups that connect you with others living with low vision.

• #38 Low Vision and Vision Rehabilitation | AOA

  https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/caring-for-your-eyes/low-vision-and-vision-rehab

  A patient’s individual rehabilitation plan may include prescription glasses or contact lenses, optical and electronic magnification devices, assistive technology, glare control with therapeutic filters, contrast enhancement, eccentric viewing, visual field enhancement, non-optical options and referral for additional services with other professionals. […] Some doctors of optometry specialize in low-vision rehabilitation. They examine and provide rehabilitation of patients with visual impairments. […] Low vision rehabilitation is the standard of care for people that have vision loss. […] If you, or someone you know, suffers from a vision impairment, ask your doctor of optometry about low vision rehabilitation. […] A doctor of optometry who provides low-vision rehabilitative services can help people with low vision regain their independence and improve their quality of life. […] People with low vision can learn a variety of techniques to help them perform daily activities with their remaining vision.

• #39

  https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/blindness-and-visual-impairment

  Globally, at least 2.2 billion people have a near or distance vision impairment. In at least 1 billion of these, vision impairment could have been prevented or is yet to be addressed. […] Vision impairment occurs when an eye condition affects the visual system and its vision functions. Everyone, if they live long enough, will experience at least one eye condition in their lifetime that will require appropriate care. […] Vision impairment has serious consequences for the individual across the life course. Many of these consequences can be mitigated by timely access to quality eye care. […] Vision rehabilitation is very effective in improving functioning for people with an irreversible vision loss that can be caused by eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, consequences of trauma, and age-related macular degeneration.

• #40 Blindness | Low Vision | MedlinePlus

  https://medlineplus.gov/visionimpairmentandblindness.html

  Vision impairment is the loss of vision. It includes blindness, which means that you have lost all or most of your sight. It also includes low vision, which means you have some vision, but the vision loss makes it hard to do everyday activities. You may have trouble reading, shopping, cooking, writing, and watching TV. Low vision can’t be fixed with glasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery. […] Low vision is permanent. Glasses, medicine, and surgery can’t cure low vision. But sometimes they can improve your vision, help you do everyday activities more easily, or keep your remaining vision. […] Vision rehabilitation teaches you how to live with your vision loss. It may include: Showing you how to use a magnifying device or screen readers for reading, Helping you set up your home so you can move around more easily, Employment and job training, Assistive devices, like lighting and reading stands.

• #41 Low Vision: Causes, Characteristics, Treatment & Prevention

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8585-low-vision

  Treatment for low vision is called vision rehabilitation. The goal of the treatment is to maximize your vision as much as possible and otherwise help you live as independently as possible with the vision you have. This may involve a wide variety of resources. […] Based on the results of your exam, a low vision specialist will design a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific difficulties and needs. Theyll offer resources and recommendations to help you adapt and optimize your quality of life. […] You might benefit from a prescription for glasses or contact lenses, optical magnifiers or telescopes, electronic magnifiers and screen readers, large print and high contrast products, voice-to-text and audio reading technology, and audible home devices. […] You might also benefit from occupational therapy to learn new ways to perform tasks, a mobility specialist to help you learn to get around, a rehabilitation instructor to teach you independent living skills, special education or vocational services, counseling or psychotherapy to maintain your mental health, and support groups that connect you with others living with low vision.

• #42 Managing the care of patients who have visual impairment | Nursing Times

  https://www.nursingtimes.net/primary-care/managing-the-care-of-patients-who-have-visual-impairment-06-01-2004/

  An awareness and understanding of the concept of individual needs and how best to address them are also essential. […] The significant biological and physiological needs of patients with visual impairment are those associated with eating and drinking. […] According to Moore and Miller (2003), visual impairment in older people has been associated with falls that often result in fractures, dislocations, and lacerations. […] The prospect of undergoing ophthalmic surgery, for example, the removal of a cataract, or retinal detachment surgery, means having to confront uncertainties and fears about the possibility of not being able to gain further useful vision, or even total loss of vision. […] It is vital that patients understand the implications of non-compliance with drop therapy. […] First meetings with a patient with visual impairment are important because the goals are mutual and first impressions will influence the patients expectations.

• #43 Vision Loss and Blindness

  https://www.caregiver.org/resource/vision-loss-and-blindness/

  Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is the best way for a diabetic to prevent diabetic retinopathy. […] Helping your loved one find vision-related rehabilitation services may be one of the best ways for you as a caregiver to provide practical support. […] Rehabilitation services include adaptive living, orientation and mobility training (including the possibility of using a cane to move around in public), vision training, and assistive devices. […] It is important that your loved one continues to see the vision specialist every year to catch any changes in vision. […] Acknowledging these negative emotions is important. […] Most people with vision loss do find that their confidence about living with reduced eyesight increases over time. […] To help your loved one deal with the challenges of reduced vision, you’ll want to be as informed, supportive, and caring as possible. […] By continuing to treat your loved one with respect and care, you can help him or her feel empowered to overcome challenges and remain as independent as possible.

• #44 Vision Loss and Blindness

  https://www.caregiver.org/resource/vision-loss-and-blindness/

  Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is the best way for a diabetic to prevent diabetic retinopathy. […] Helping your loved one find vision-related rehabilitation services may be one of the best ways for you as a caregiver to provide practical support. […] Rehabilitation services include adaptive living, orientation and mobility training (including the possibility of using a cane to move around in public), vision training, and assistive devices. […] It is important that your loved one continues to see the vision specialist every year to catch any changes in vision. […] Acknowledging these negative emotions is important. […] Most people with vision loss do find that their confidence about living with reduced eyesight increases over time. […] To help your loved one deal with the challenges of reduced vision, you’ll want to be as informed, supportive, and caring as possible. […] By continuing to treat your loved one with respect and care, you can help him or her feel empowered to overcome challenges and remain as independent as possible.

• #45 Blindness (Vision Impairment): Types, Causes and Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24446-blindness

  Blindness can result from infections, accidents, genetic conditions and other diseases. Types of blindness can range from no vision at all to seeing shapes. Some types can be prevented or cured, but other types cant be treated. […] Blindness is the inability to see or a lack of vision. In the most severe cases, theres an inability to see even light. It also means that you cant correct your vision with eyeglasses, contact lenses, eye drops or other medical therapy, or surgery. Sudden vision loss is an emergency. Its important to seek immediate medical help. […] You may also hear about preventable blindness or avoidable blindness. These terms refer to blindness that happens to people that have a diseases that is treatable but they never receive care. This often happens because of a lack of access to eye care or healthcare. For instance, people who never receive care for diabetes may develop diabetes-related retinopathy. People who dont receive care for hypertension may develop hypertensive retinopathy.

• #46 Visual impairment – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visual_impairment

  Visual impairment or vision impairment (VI or VIP) is the partial or total inability of visual perception. In the absence of treatment such as corrective eyewear, assistive devices, and medical treatment, visual impairment may cause the individual difficulties with normal daily tasks, including reading and walking. […] The most common causes of visual impairment globally are uncorrected refractive errors (43%), cataracts (33%), and glaucoma (2%). […] The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 80% of visual impairment is either preventable or curable with treatment. This includes cataracts, the infections river blindness and trachoma, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, uncorrected refractive errors, and some cases of childhood blindness. Many people with significant visual impairment benefit from vision rehabilitation, changes in their environment, and assistive devices.

• #47 Blindness | Low Vision | MedlinePlus

  https://medlineplus.gov/visionimpairmentandblindness.html

  The sooner vision loss or eye disease is found and treated, the greater your chances of keeping your remaining vision. Whatever the cause, lost vision cannot be restored. But it can be managed. A loss of vision means you may have to reorganize your life and learn new ways of doing things. […] If you have no vision (blindness): Devices like text-reading software and braille books. […] You can help take care of your vision by: Having regular comprehensive eye exams by an eye care professional, Wearing sunglasses and protective eyewear to protect your eyes, Making lifestyle changes to lower your risk of health conditions that can cause vision problems.

• #48 Low Vision: Causes, Characteristics, Treatment & Prevention

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8585-low-vision

  The best way to prevent permanent vision loss is to keep up with your regular eye exams and see your provider right away if you notice anything unusual. While not all causes of low vision are preventable, many are treatable if you catch them early enough. […] Not everyone with low vision bothers with rehabilitation services, but most people could benefit a lot from them. From practical tools, tips and tricks to social and emotional support systems, theres a wealth of resources out there to take advantage of.

• #49 Focusing on Blindness – Versant Health

  https://versanthealth.com/blog/focusing-on-blindness/

  According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the leading causes of blindness and low vision in the United States are primarily eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, cataract, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. […] Treatment is dependent on the cause. Some conditions are curable and in other cases, vision may be restored through the use of eyeglasses, contact lenses, surgery or medication. […] The good news is that roughly 80% of visual impairment is preventable. Regular eye exams can help detect eye disease and prevent vision loss. Healthy habits such as avoiding smoking, maintaining proper nutrition and weight and exercise play a significant role in preventing blindness or vision impairment caused by disease. […] Help prevent blindness and visual impairment by scheduling your regular eye care screening and encouraging loved ones to visit their eye care professional.

• #50 Advancing Health Equity: Social Determinants and Vision Loss | Vision and Eye Health | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/health-equity/index.html

  People with less than a high school education are less likely to have had an eye care visit in the last year compared to people with more than a high school education. […] Neighborhood safety can impact physical activity, weight management, blood sugar levels, and stress. These are all factors that affect someone’s risk for diabetes, which can lead to vision loss. […] People living with a disability such as vision impairment or blindness report having more problems accessing care. Common issues include cost, insurance coverage, transportation, and refusal of services by providers. People with vision impairment are also more likely to be uninsured compared to people without. […] Addressing these barriers is key to eliminating health disparities and reaching vision health equity. […] Vision loss ranks among the top 10 causes of disability in the United States. About 7 million Americans have vision impairment, including 1 million who are blind. These numbers are expected to double by 2050 due to population aging and increases in chronic diseases that can lead to vision loss.

• #51 Developing a care plan – Macular Disease Foundation Australia Macular Disease Foundation Australia

  https://www.mdfoundation.com.au/living-well/carers/developing-care-plan/

  A care plan makes sure everyone involved understands the needs of the person with vision loss. […] Having a care plan will make it easier to ensure the person with vision loss has the right support and assistance. It also ensures continuity of care, particularly when more than one person acts as a carer, or if respite care is required. […] Care plans will vary depending on the type and extent of vision loss, and the individual circumstances of the person you care for. However, it should contain: personal details of the person you care for, care needs, including details of tasks the person needs help with, contact details for all relevant health professionals, a medicine list, including details of any appointments with an eye care professional, details of people and/or service providers that can assist, emergency contact details, an Amsler grid to monitor any changes in vision between appointments with the eye care professional.

• #52 Visual Impairment Nursing Care Plan | Planning For Care

  https://planningforcare.co.uk/product/visual-impairment-nursing-care-plan/

  If a person is visually impaired, they will have some loss of vision or some distortion to their vision. Depending on the severity of sight loss or the degree of distortion, the conditions are usually referred to as partial sightedness or blindness. […] Visual impairment, which can’t be treated can be difficult to come to terms with. Some people go through a process similar to bereavement, where they experience a range of emotions including shock, anger, and denial, before eventually coming to accept their condition. […] The Care Plan sets out a clear explanation of the resident’s issue, and will guide the nurse or carer through the process of preparing a comprehensive, individual person centred Care Plan. […] Visual Impairment Nursing Care Plan Features: Details the cause and degree of visual impairment […] Details a comprehensive plan of care […] Identifies possible complications.

• #53 Developing a care plan – Macular Disease Foundation Australia Macular Disease Foundation Australia

  https://www.mdfoundation.com.au/living-well/carers/developing-care-plan/

  A care plan makes sure everyone involved understands the needs of the person with vision loss. […] Having a care plan will make it easier to ensure the person with vision loss has the right support and assistance. It also ensures continuity of care, particularly when more than one person acts as a carer, or if respite care is required. […] Care plans will vary depending on the type and extent of vision loss, and the individual circumstances of the person you care for. However, it should contain: personal details of the person you care for, care needs, including details of tasks the person needs help with, contact details for all relevant health professionals, a medicine list, including details of any appointments with an eye care professional, details of people and/or service providers that can assist, emergency contact details, an Amsler grid to monitor any changes in vision between appointments with the eye care professional.

• #54 Care Plans for the Visually Impaired | Helping Hands Home Care

  https://www.helpinghandshomecare.co.uk/costs-funding/care-plans-for-the-visually-impaired/

  Impaired visibility means any kind of vision loss, whether its partial or total blindness. […] A care plan for visual impairment is designed specifically around sight loss and the reasonable adjustment of your way of life. […] A vision loss care plan can help make the process easier by providing support for glaucoma symptoms, support after eye surgery, and help adjust to life with limited vision. […] Our nursing care plan for blindness can provide clinical attention to any symptoms of glaucoma or eye surgery. […] A blind nursing care plan can assist with implementing adaptations within your home. […] We can bring a nursing care plan for legally blind people right to your doorstep. […] Adjusting to life with impaired visibility can be a difficult time with many changes in your day-to-day.

• #55 Developing a care plan – Macular Disease Foundation Australia Macular Disease Foundation Australia

  https://www.mdfoundation.com.au/living-well/carers/developing-care-plan/

  A low vision assessment is a crucial first step in developing a care plan. A low vision assessment will include tests to determine how much of your vision remains. You’ll also get valuable advice and support for your individual circumstances. […] When developing the care plan, it’s important to actively involve the person with vision loss. Try to: identify tasks and activities they can no longer do independently, acknowledge that the person with vision loss is the authority on their own experience, allow them to make their own decisions, unless they ask for help, avoid being overprotective, remain positive. […] The impact of blindness and vision loss doesn’t only affect patients. This podcast by Ita Buttrose considers who cares for the carers.

• #56 Tips on communicating to patients with vision loss | Vision Australia. Blindness and low vision services

  https://www.visionaustralia.org/news/tips-communicating-patients-vision-loss

  Better patient outcomes usually come down to great communication. […] With 55 per cent of meaning communicated through body language, and only seven per cent through spoken word, it is imperative health professionals maximise their communication skills for blind and low vision patients. […] Give the patient the control in a situation; address them, not their carer or family member; explain the examination process before you touch them; and provide good verbal instructions that they can understand. […] Here are simple tips to communicate better with blind and low vision patients: Identify yourself. Don’t assume the person will recognise you by your voice. […] Talk to the patient, not their carer or family member. Remember, they’re not deaf. […] Always ask first to check if help is needed. Don’t assume you know better. Ask the patient if they would like some assistance.

• #57 Tips on communicating to patients with vision loss | Vision Australia. Blindness and low vision services

  https://www.visionaustralia.org/news/tips-communicating-patients-vision-loss

  Better patient outcomes usually come down to great communication. […] With 55 per cent of meaning communicated through body language, and only seven per cent through spoken word, it is imperative health professionals maximise their communication skills for blind and low vision patients. […] Give the patient the control in a situation; address them, not their carer or family member; explain the examination process before you touch them; and provide good verbal instructions that they can understand. […] Here are simple tips to communicate better with blind and low vision patients: Identify yourself. Don’t assume the person will recognise you by your voice. […] Talk to the patient, not their carer or family member. Remember, they’re not deaf. […] Always ask first to check if help is needed. Don’t assume you know better. Ask the patient if they would like some assistance.

• #58 Tips on communicating to patients with vision loss | Vision Australia. Blindness and low vision services

  https://www.visionaustralia.org/news/tips-communicating-patients-vision-loss

  Announce what you are going to do. When examining the patient, announce what they should expect. […] Modify instructions to match the lived experience of the patient. […] Many say they wish their doctor had connected them with vision rehabilitation services early, either by speaking to them about these services directly, by training their reception staff to have this conversation, or by simply having written information (e.g. brochures) available in the waiting area. […] For more tips in assisting patients with a vision condition, visit Vision Australia’s website information section.

• #59 7 Tips for Caregivers of Blind Individuals: Providing the Best Care Possible

  https://hmonghomehealthcare.com/news/7-tips-for-caregivers-of-blind-individuals-providing-the-best-care-possible/

  Providing care for someone with a visual impairment can be challenging, but it can also be a rewarding experience. […] Effective communication is crucial when taking care of someone who is blind. […] Creating a safe and comfortable environment is essential for someone with a vision impairment. […] Encourage your client to do personal care things on their own, such as getting dressed, preparing meals, or using the restroom. […] Taking care of a visually impaired person can be frustrating at times, but it’s important to remain patient and understanding. […] Educating yourself about blindness can help you better understand your client’s needs and challenges. […] Maintaining a positive attitude can help you and your client cope with the challenges of blindness. […] Recognize when you need help and support.

• #60 Tips on communicating to patients with vision loss | Vision Australia. Blindness and low vision services

  https://www.visionaustralia.org/news/tips-communicating-patients-vision-loss

  Better patient outcomes usually come down to great communication. […] With 55 per cent of meaning communicated through body language, and only seven per cent through spoken word, it is imperative health professionals maximise their communication skills for blind and low vision patients. […] Give the patient the control in a situation; address them, not their carer or family member; explain the examination process before you touch them; and provide good verbal instructions that they can understand. […] Here are simple tips to communicate better with blind and low vision patients: Identify yourself. Don’t assume the person will recognise you by your voice. […] Talk to the patient, not their carer or family member. Remember, they’re not deaf. […] Always ask first to check if help is needed. Don’t assume you know better. Ask the patient if they would like some assistance.

• #61 ADA Checklist: Health Care Facilities and Service Providers | American Foundation for the Blind

  https://www.afb.org/blindness-and-low-vision/your-rights/advocacy-resources/ada-checklist-health-care-facilities-and

  The purpose of this pamphlet is to provide practical, cost-effective solutions concerning access to services and facilities by your patients who are blind, deaf-blind, or visually impaired. […] Health care providers are required to provide effective communication through appropriate auxiliary aids and services unless doing so would constitute an undue burden or would fundamentally alter the nature of the services provided. […] This pamphlet will help you to examine all of your services and facilities to identify barriers faced by your patients who are blind, deaf-blind, or visually impaired and will suggest solutions to many barriers along the way, but the most important solutions will often be suggested by your own patients. […] Generally speaking, public accommodations such as hospitals, nursing homes, day-care centers, or other health care service providers must ensure that patients who are blind, deaf-blind, or visually impaired have an equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from all of the goods and services provided by your facility.

• #62 ADA Checklist: Health Care Facilities and Service Providers | American Foundation for the Blind

  https://www.afb.org/blindness-and-low-vision/your-rights/advocacy-resources/ada-checklist-health-care-facilities-and

  The purpose of this pamphlet is to provide practical, cost-effective solutions concerning access to services and facilities by your patients who are blind, deaf-blind, or visually impaired. […] Health care providers are required to provide effective communication through appropriate auxiliary aids and services unless doing so would constitute an undue burden or would fundamentally alter the nature of the services provided. […] This pamphlet will help you to examine all of your services and facilities to identify barriers faced by your patients who are blind, deaf-blind, or visually impaired and will suggest solutions to many barriers along the way, but the most important solutions will often be suggested by your own patients. […] Generally speaking, public accommodations such as hospitals, nursing homes, day-care centers, or other health care service providers must ensure that patients who are blind, deaf-blind, or visually impaired have an equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from all of the goods and services provided by your facility.

• #63 Advancing Health Equity: Social Determinants and Vision Loss | Vision and Eye Health | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/health-equity/index.html

  People with less than a high school education are less likely to have had an eye care visit in the last year compared to people with more than a high school education. […] Neighborhood safety can impact physical activity, weight management, blood sugar levels, and stress. These are all factors that affect someone’s risk for diabetes, which can lead to vision loss. […] People living with a disability such as vision impairment or blindness report having more problems accessing care. Common issues include cost, insurance coverage, transportation, and refusal of services by providers. People with vision impairment are also more likely to be uninsured compared to people without. […] Addressing these barriers is key to eliminating health disparities and reaching vision health equity. […] Vision loss ranks among the top 10 causes of disability in the United States. About 7 million Americans have vision impairment, including 1 million who are blind. These numbers are expected to double by 2050 due to population aging and increases in chronic diseases that can lead to vision loss.

• #64

  https://www.nursingcenter.com/journalarticle?Article_ID=3273424&Journal_ID=54016&Issue_ID=3273233

  A RETIRED TRUCK DRIVER, Mr. J, 66, was recently discharged after in-hospital treatment for exacerbation of his chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Recently widowed, he lives alone and has visual impairment secondary to age-related macular degeneration. […] Mr. J expressed his frustration with his physician and nurses for not communicating his visual impairment to the pharmacy, which resulted in a missed opportunity for pharmacist consultation. […] This article provides practical nursing interventions and patient-education tips to help nurses steer patients with visual impairment clear of such dangerous medication errors. […] According to the FDA, over 1.3 million people in the United States are injured each year due to medication errors. […] Because patients with vision impairment are especially vulnerable to medication errors, patient education in this high-risk population can have a dramatic impact on patient safety.

• #65

  https://www.nursingcenter.com/journalarticle?Article_ID=3273424&Journal_ID=54016&Issue_ID=3273233

  Proactively assess patients’ visual capabilities. If your patient has visual limitations, clearly communicate those limitations to other nurses, healthcare providers, and hospital staff involved in the patient’s care. […] Nurses need to sit down with the patient and family and take the time to teach them about discharge instructions, especially newly prescribed medications. […] Special techniques are very important for visually impaired patients. […] Proactively searching for signs of impaired vision in patients can help nurses identify those individuals at increased risk for experiencing a medication error due to blindness or low vision. […] Through careful assessments and patient teaching, nurses in many settings can help vulnerable patients with visual impairments avoid experiencing medication errors at home.

• #66 Advancing Health Equity: Social Determinants and Vision Loss | Vision and Eye Health | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/health-equity/index.html

  People with less than a high school education are less likely to have had an eye care visit in the last year compared to people with more than a high school education. […] Neighborhood safety can impact physical activity, weight management, blood sugar levels, and stress. These are all factors that affect someone’s risk for diabetes, which can lead to vision loss. […] People living with a disability such as vision impairment or blindness report having more problems accessing care. Common issues include cost, insurance coverage, transportation, and refusal of services by providers. People with vision impairment are also more likely to be uninsured compared to people without. […] Addressing these barriers is key to eliminating health disparities and reaching vision health equity. […] Vision loss ranks among the top 10 causes of disability in the United States. About 7 million Americans have vision impairment, including 1 million who are blind. These numbers are expected to double by 2050 due to population aging and increases in chronic diseases that can lead to vision loss.

• #67 How Ageism Impacts People with Blindness and Low Vision

  https://www.ncoa.org/article/ageism-in-health-care-a-vision-loss-perspective/

  Ageism in health care is a barrier keeping many older adults with vision loss from getting the vision rehabilitation services they need. […] Ageism in health care delivery can disproportionately affect older people living with blindness and low vision. Although vision rehabilitation services are widely recognized as critical for adults under age 55 who experience significant vision loss, thats not always the case for older people, perpetuating unequal health care access, referrals, and outcomes. […] Tragically, there is a long-held belief that vision loss is an inevitable part of aging and that adults 55+ are less capable of benefiting from rehabilitation. This erroneous belief leads to a systemic failure to prioritize referrals for vision rehabilitation services for adults 55+, and especially those 65+.

• #68 ADA Checklist: Health Care Facilities and Service Providers | American Foundation for the Blind

  https://www.afb.org/blindness-and-low-vision/your-rights/advocacy-resources/ada-checklist-health-care-facilities-and

  It is important that treatment and discharge plans be tailored to meet the life-style of a patient who is blind, deaf-blind, or visually impaired. […] For the newly blinded patient, whether vision loss is caused by accident, illness, or is incidental to the hospital admission, staff should consult with state or local blindness service delivery agencies to ensure immediate services and continuity of care after discharge. […] The ADA requires admission of service animals to hospitals, offices of health care providers, and similar facilities unless a fundamental alteration would result or safe operation would be jeopardized. […] The presence of a „direct threat” to health or safety must be determined by competent personnel, based upon medical or other evidence. […] The ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG), which is available as an appendix to the Justice Department’s Title III regulations, contains several provisions concerning accessible signage: braille, raised characters, contrast, Serif, and character height. […] A self-evaluation and a barrier removal plan are the most effective ways to determine how accessible your services and facilities are now and what steps you need to take to provide greater accessibility in the future.

• #69 How Ageism Impacts People with Blindness and Low Vision

  https://www.ncoa.org/article/ageism-in-health-care-a-vision-loss-perspective/

  Without appropriate referrals and access to vision rehabilitation services, older people with blindness or low vision face significantly diminished quality of life and increased safety risks. […] Addressing this issue requires systemic change and an unwavering focus on the importance of referrals for adults of all ages with vision loss. […] Health care systems must challenge ageist assumptions by recognizing that vision rehabilitation is essential for adults regardless of age and can help adults 65+ remain safely and confidently in their homes. […] Ageism in health care is pervasive, but for those living with vision loss, it dramatically undermines safety, independence, and quality of life. […] Take the first step in supporting your clients with blindness and low vision by providing a referral or connecting them with a local vision rehabilitation agency.

• #70

  https://www.nursingcenter.com/journalarticle?Article_ID=3273424&Journal_ID=54016&Issue_ID=3273233

  Proactively assess patients’ visual capabilities. If your patient has visual limitations, clearly communicate those limitations to other nurses, healthcare providers, and hospital staff involved in the patient’s care. […] Nurses need to sit down with the patient and family and take the time to teach them about discharge instructions, especially newly prescribed medications. […] Special techniques are very important for visually impaired patients. […] Proactively searching for signs of impaired vision in patients can help nurses identify those individuals at increased risk for experiencing a medication error due to blindness or low vision. […] Through careful assessments and patient teaching, nurses in many settings can help vulnerable patients with visual impairments avoid experiencing medication errors at home.

• #71

  https://www.nursingcenter.com/journalarticle?Article_ID=3273424&Journal_ID=54016&Issue_ID=3273233

  Proactively assess patients’ visual capabilities. If your patient has visual limitations, clearly communicate those limitations to other nurses, healthcare providers, and hospital staff involved in the patient’s care. […] Nurses need to sit down with the patient and family and take the time to teach them about discharge instructions, especially newly prescribed medications. […] Special techniques are very important for visually impaired patients. […] Proactively searching for signs of impaired vision in patients can help nurses identify those individuals at increased risk for experiencing a medication error due to blindness or low vision. […] Through careful assessments and patient teaching, nurses in many settings can help vulnerable patients with visual impairments avoid experiencing medication errors at home.

• #72 Nursing Care Plan for Macular Degeneration: Addressing Vision Impairment

  https://studyingnurse.com/study/nursing-care-plan-for-macular-degeneration/

  Patients with visual impairment due to macular degeneration or other eye conditions are at an increased risk for injury. […] Effective nursing management is essential to minimize these risks and ensure patient safety. […] Patient education plays a crucial role in improving safety for visually impaired individuals. […] Eye care and regular eye exams are fundamental components of nursing management for patients with macular degeneration. […] Vision rehabilitation is a crucial aspect of care for patients with macular degeneration and other causes of vision impairment. […] Integrating low-vision aids into a nursing care plan can significantly enhance a patient’s ability to perform daily activities and maintain independence. […] Patient education is a critical component of nursing care for individuals with macular degeneration. […] Empowering patients to manage their vision impairment involves several strategies. […] Understanding glaucoma and cataracts is crucial for patients with macular degeneration for several reasons.

• #73 4 Glaucoma Nursing Care Plans – Nurseslabs

  https://nurseslabs.com/glaucoma-nursing-care-plans/

  Assess for the following subjective and objective data: Gradual loss of peripheral vision, Increased intraocular pressure, Blurred or hazy vision, Halos around lights, Vision loss or blindness, Headaches or eye strain. […] Goals and expected outcomes may include: The client will maintain the current visual field/acuity without further loss. The client will verbalize understanding of the condition, prognosis, and treatment. […] Glaucoma is characterized by increased intraocular pressure, which can lead to changes in visual sensory perception. Patients with glaucoma may experience vision loss, particularly in the peripheral areas, and have difficulty seeing in low-light conditions. Proper management of intraocular pressure is essential to preserve visual function and prevent further damage to the optic nerve.

• #74 Nursing Care Plan for Macular Degeneration: Addressing Vision Impairment

  https://studyingnurse.com/study/nursing-care-plan-for-macular-degeneration/

  Patients with visual impairment due to macular degeneration or other eye conditions are at an increased risk for injury. […] Effective nursing management is essential to minimize these risks and ensure patient safety. […] Patient education plays a crucial role in improving safety for visually impaired individuals. […] Eye care and regular eye exams are fundamental components of nursing management for patients with macular degeneration. […] Vision rehabilitation is a crucial aspect of care for patients with macular degeneration and other causes of vision impairment. […] Integrating low-vision aids into a nursing care plan can significantly enhance a patient’s ability to perform daily activities and maintain independence. […] Patient education is a critical component of nursing care for individuals with macular degeneration. […] Empowering patients to manage their vision impairment involves several strategies. […] Understanding glaucoma and cataracts is crucial for patients with macular degeneration for several reasons.

• #75 Nursing Care Plan for Macular Degeneration | Free NURSING.com Courses

  https://nursing.com/lesson/nursing-care-plan-for-macular-degeneration

  Understand the disease and its management. […] Changes in vision, such as blurred or distorted vision. […] Difficulty adapting to low light levels. […] Problems recognizing faces or reading. […] Patients perception of their ability to perform daily activities. […] Monitor the severity of vision loss. […] Assess the impact of vision loss on daily activities and quality of life. […] Identify potential safety hazards in the patients environment due to vision loss. […] Disturbed Sensory Perception: Visual related to macular degeneration. […] Risk for Injury related to decreased visual acuity. […] Knowledge Deficit related to the disease process and self-care strategies. […] Risk for Social Isolation related to vision impairment. […] Visual Rehabilitation: Refer to low-vision rehabilitation services and provide resources for visual aids.

• #76

  https://www.nursingcenter.com/journalarticle?Article_ID=3273424&Journal_ID=54016&Issue_ID=3273233

  Proactively assess patients’ visual capabilities. If your patient has visual limitations, clearly communicate those limitations to other nurses, healthcare providers, and hospital staff involved in the patient’s care. […] Nurses need to sit down with the patient and family and take the time to teach them about discharge instructions, especially newly prescribed medications. […] Special techniques are very important for visually impaired patients. […] Proactively searching for signs of impaired vision in patients can help nurses identify those individuals at increased risk for experiencing a medication error due to blindness or low vision. […] Through careful assessments and patient teaching, nurses in many settings can help vulnerable patients with visual impairments avoid experiencing medication errors at home.

• #77 Managing the care of patients who have visual impairment | Nursing Times

  https://www.nursingtimes.net/primary-care/managing-the-care-of-patients-who-have-visual-impairment-06-01-2004/

  Helping them to regain some control over their condition, or the underlying systemic disease causing it, may be the way to help to restore their self-esteem and confidence. […] Providing these patients with information about low-vision aids such as talking books, large-print reading materials, small hand-held magnifiers, and telescopic devices can facilitate their adaptation to visual loss and the utilisation of rehabilitation strategies. […] The application of a patient-centred model underpinned by the concept of needs has several implications for practice. […] Meeting individual needs through effectively managed care may help to make a difference to patients with visual impairment. […] Nurses who have a knowledge and understanding of ocular pathology and the nature of visual impairment may be able to provide the effective communication and care management skills required to meet the special needs of patients who have visual impairment, their families and significant others.

• #78

  https://www.nursingcenter.com/journalarticle?Article_ID=3273424&Journal_ID=54016&Issue_ID=3273233

  Proactively assess patients’ visual capabilities. If your patient has visual limitations, clearly communicate those limitations to other nurses, healthcare providers, and hospital staff involved in the patient’s care. […] Nurses need to sit down with the patient and family and take the time to teach them about discharge instructions, especially newly prescribed medications. […] Special techniques are very important for visually impaired patients. […] Proactively searching for signs of impaired vision in patients can help nurses identify those individuals at increased risk for experiencing a medication error due to blindness or low vision. […] Through careful assessments and patient teaching, nurses in many settings can help vulnerable patients with visual impairments avoid experiencing medication errors at home.

• #79

  https://www.who.int/health-topics/blindness-and-vision-loss

  Eye conditions are remarkably common. Those who live long enough will experience at least one eye condition during their lifetime. […] Globally, at least 1 billion people have a near or distance vision impairment that could have been prevented or has yet to be addressed. In the absence of timely detection, reduced or absent eyesight can have long-term personal and economic effects. Vision impairment affects people of all ages, with the majority being over the age of 50. Young children with early onset severe vision impairment can experience lower levels of educational achievement, and in adults it often affects quality of life through lower productivity, decreased workforce participation and high rates of depression. […] Vision impairment and blindness impact the life of people everywhere. In low- and middle-income settings the burden of vision impairment can be even greater due to fewer opportunities to access the most essential eye care services.

• #80

  https://www.who.int/health-topics/blindness-and-vision-loss

  Eye conditions are remarkably common. Those who live long enough will experience at least one eye condition during their lifetime. […] Globally, at least 1 billion people have a near or distance vision impairment that could have been prevented or has yet to be addressed. In the absence of timely detection, reduced or absent eyesight can have long-term personal and economic effects. Vision impairment affects people of all ages, with the majority being over the age of 50. Young children with early onset severe vision impairment can experience lower levels of educational achievement, and in adults it often affects quality of life through lower productivity, decreased workforce participation and high rates of depression. […] Vision impairment and blindness impact the life of people everywhere. In low- and middle-income settings the burden of vision impairment can be even greater due to fewer opportunities to access the most essential eye care services.

• #81 Visual Impairments

  https://hpi.georgetown.edu/visual/

  Health care costs for people who have difficulty seeing include those related to glasses and contact lenses and visits to optometrists. […] Adults with visual impairments may face limitations in the type or amount of work they can do, or they may be unable to work at all. […] Workers who have difficulty seeing earn less than those who do not. […] Regardless of age, visual impairments may hinder involvement in social activities as well as relationships with family and friends. […] Larger proportions of adults with visual impairments report symptoms of depression, compared to adults without. […] A much larger proportion of people with visual impairments report their physical health as fair to poor, compared to those without impairments. […] Compared to people without visual impairments, larger proportions of people with visual impairments use health care services. […] In 1997, the median value of total health care expenditures for those with visual impairments was almost four times that of those without. […] Advances in technology continue to enhance the lives of people who have difficulty seeing and may feel physically and socially isolated at times.

• #82

  https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/blindness-and-visual-impairment

  Vision impairment poses an enormous global financial burden with an estimate annual global productivity loss of about US$ 411 billion purchasing power parity. This figure far outweighs the estimated cost gap of addressing the unmet need of vision impairment. […] Treatment is also available for many eye conditions that do not typically cause vision impairment, such as dry eye, conjunctivitis and blepharitis, but generate discomfort and pain. Treatment of these conditions is directed at alleviating the symptoms and preventing the evolution towards more severe stages of those diseases.

• #83 Visual Impairments

  https://hpi.georgetown.edu/visual/

  Health care costs for people who have difficulty seeing include those related to glasses and contact lenses and visits to optometrists. […] Adults with visual impairments may face limitations in the type or amount of work they can do, or they may be unable to work at all. […] Workers who have difficulty seeing earn less than those who do not. […] Regardless of age, visual impairments may hinder involvement in social activities as well as relationships with family and friends. […] Larger proportions of adults with visual impairments report symptoms of depression, compared to adults without. […] A much larger proportion of people with visual impairments report their physical health as fair to poor, compared to those without impairments. […] Compared to people without visual impairments, larger proportions of people with visual impairments use health care services. […] In 1997, the median value of total health care expenditures for those with visual impairments was almost four times that of those without. […] Advances in technology continue to enhance the lives of people who have difficulty seeing and may feel physically and socially isolated at times.

• #84 Advancing Health Equity: Social Determinants and Vision Loss | Vision and Eye Health | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/health-equity/index.html

  Social factors like education and economic status can affect people’s risk of vision loss and eye disease. […] Reducing disparities in social determinants of health is essential to reaching vision health equity. […] Social factors like where someone lives and how much money they earn can affect their health, including risk of vision loss. […] Social determinants are key drivers of health inequitiesespecially among people from racial and ethnic minority groups. Health inequities increase the risk of poor health outcomes. It is essential to reduce and eliminate these disparities to reach health equity. […] People with lower incomes are less likely to access preventive care, including an eye exam. They are also less likely to be able to afford eyeglasses and more likely to have vision loss due to diabetic retinopathy.

• #85 Advancing Health Equity: Social Determinants and Vision Loss | Vision and Eye Health | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/health-equity/index.html

  People with less than a high school education are less likely to have had an eye care visit in the last year compared to people with more than a high school education. […] Neighborhood safety can impact physical activity, weight management, blood sugar levels, and stress. These are all factors that affect someone’s risk for diabetes, which can lead to vision loss. […] People living with a disability such as vision impairment or blindness report having more problems accessing care. Common issues include cost, insurance coverage, transportation, and refusal of services by providers. People with vision impairment are also more likely to be uninsured compared to people without. […] Addressing these barriers is key to eliminating health disparities and reaching vision health equity. […] Vision loss ranks among the top 10 causes of disability in the United States. About 7 million Americans have vision impairment, including 1 million who are blind. These numbers are expected to double by 2050 due to population aging and increases in chronic diseases that can lead to vision loss.

• #86 Advancing Health Equity: Social Determinants and Vision Loss | Vision and Eye Health | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/health-equity/index.html

  Social factors like education and economic status can affect people’s risk of vision loss and eye disease. […] Reducing disparities in social determinants of health is essential to reaching vision health equity. […] Social factors like where someone lives and how much money they earn can affect their health, including risk of vision loss. […] Social determinants are key drivers of health inequitiesespecially among people from racial and ethnic minority groups. Health inequities increase the risk of poor health outcomes. It is essential to reduce and eliminate these disparities to reach health equity. […] People with lower incomes are less likely to access preventive care, including an eye exam. They are also less likely to be able to afford eyeglasses and more likely to have vision loss due to diabetic retinopathy.

• #87 Cure For Blindness – Can Blindness Be Cured?

  https://www.eduardobessermd.com/blog/is-there-a-cure-for-blindness

  This is typically offered to patients with nutritional blindness. […] While there is no cure for blindness, patients can do a number of things to reduce their risk of blindness and vision loss. […] Researchers are currently working on several developments which they hope may turn into a cure for blindness. […] The program hopes to transplant whole eyes and reconnect the nerves, muscles, and blood vessels to the patient’s brain, allowing them to see properly. […] Experts believe optogenetics has the potential to treat certain types of blindness. […] The goal is to give the ganglion cells the ability to sense light on their own, making them self-sufficient and able to produce vision. […] The goal is to target the underlying genetic causes of certain eye diseases, and repair or replace faulty genes responsible for vision loss.

• #88 Cure For Blindness – Can Blindness Be Cured?

  https://www.eduardobessermd.com/blog/is-there-a-cure-for-blindness

  This is typically offered to patients with nutritional blindness. […] While there is no cure for blindness, patients can do a number of things to reduce their risk of blindness and vision loss. […] Researchers are currently working on several developments which they hope may turn into a cure for blindness. […] The program hopes to transplant whole eyes and reconnect the nerves, muscles, and blood vessels to the patient’s brain, allowing them to see properly. […] Experts believe optogenetics has the potential to treat certain types of blindness. […] The goal is to give the ganglion cells the ability to sense light on their own, making them self-sufficient and able to produce vision. […] The goal is to target the underlying genetic causes of certain eye diseases, and repair or replace faulty genes responsible for vision loss.

• #89 Visual Impairments

  https://hpi.georgetown.edu/visual/

  Health care costs for people who have difficulty seeing include those related to glasses and contact lenses and visits to optometrists. […] Adults with visual impairments may face limitations in the type or amount of work they can do, or they may be unable to work at all. […] Workers who have difficulty seeing earn less than those who do not. […] Regardless of age, visual impairments may hinder involvement in social activities as well as relationships with family and friends. […] Larger proportions of adults with visual impairments report symptoms of depression, compared to adults without. […] A much larger proportion of people with visual impairments report their physical health as fair to poor, compared to those without impairments. […] Compared to people without visual impairments, larger proportions of people with visual impairments use health care services. […] In 1997, the median value of total health care expenditures for those with visual impairments was almost four times that of those without. […] Advances in technology continue to enhance the lives of people who have difficulty seeing and may feel physically and socially isolated at times.

• #90 Blindness and vision loss

  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vision-loss/

  If you’re diagnosed with a condition that affects your vision, you have a legal obligation to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). […] Technology to help you live well and safely with sight loss is developing all the time. […] If you’re currently employed and have recently been diagnosed with a visual impairment, you should contact the GOV.UK: Access to Work scheme. […] If you have vision loss, it’s still important to have regular sight tests so your optometrist (eye specialist) can check for further changes in your eyes and give you advice about how to make the best use of your vision.

• #91 Vision impairment, blindness affect 66 percent of nursing home residents in study –

  https://www.mcknights.com/news/vision-impairment-blindness-affect-66-percent-of-nursing-home-residents-in-study/

  This study substantiates the positive impact of comprehensive eye examinations to promote visual, systemic, and cognitive health and well-being, the authors added. […] Eye care services should be used to inform clinical practice and policy with the goal of improving patient functioning and independence, they said. […] Data sets such as those can help stakeholders address the role that vision loss plays in resident health, including the role of vision in falls prevention and patient safety, the researchers noted. […] Other research has linked vision correction with functional improvements in older adults, as well. […] In the current study, vision impairment was defined as best-corrected visual acuity between 20/40 and 20/200, and blindness was defined as best-corrected visual acuity of 20/200 or worse.

• #92 Visual Health – PAHO/WHO | Pan American Health Organization

  https://www.paho.org/en/topics/visual-health

  Data from prevalence surveys conducted by the Pan American Health Organization in nine countries revealed that marginal and poor populations have a higher prevalence of blindness and visual disability. […] Blindness and visual impairment can be prevented in about 80 percent of people. It is almost four times more common in poor and illiterate people living in marginalized and rural areas than in wealthy neighborhoods. To reduce blindness and visual impairment, it is necessary to increase access to eye care services by strengthening public services in the poorest areas of each country. Access to eye care can reduce visual impairment and refractive errors throughout the life course. […] PAHO supports governments in the development of standards, policies, and guidelines for eye care and plans to strengthen eye care systems. Through its regional program for the prevention of blindness it generates population-based epidemiological data and evidence on inequities in health systems and services. Given that evidence shows that blindness and severe visual impairment are clustered among poor and rural people, PAHO provides technical cooperation and support in planning, strengthening, monitoring, and evaluating public eye care services to reduce inequities in the provision of services.

• #93 Managing the care of patients who have visual impairment | Nursing Times

  https://www.nursingtimes.net/primary-care/managing-the-care-of-patients-who-have-visual-impairment-06-01-2004/

  Ophthalmic and general nurse practitioners are currently addressing the changing role of nursing practice. […] Extending the role of the ophthalmic nurse practitioner can promote delivery of a more effective health care service and reduce waiting times. […] Meeting patients needs is central to clinical governance. For patients with visual impairment, the role of clinical governance is to ensure that the right thing is done at the right time and that it is done well. […] Moore and Miller (2003) point out that care for patients with visual impairment must be carefully individualised, while fostering normalisation. Effective communication and, most importantly, acknowledging the patient with visual impairment as a human being with the same range of needs and feelings as a person who has normal sight, may achieve this.

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