Experiences of loneliness and isolation among people with visual impairment: A review of literature (2016–2023)

Abstract

According to the UK Government, people with a disability or long-term health condition are more likely to experience chronic loneliness than the general population. However, government figures do not disaggregate data on loneliness among different types of health conditions or disabilities, and it remains unclear how this affects people with visual impairment (VI). This review examines experiences of loneliness and isolation among people with VI. Six databases (CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, Sage, APA Psycharticles, and Psychology and Behavioural Sciences Collection) were searched using a Population, Interest and Outcome (PIO) framework, yielding a total of 2476 articles. A total of 29 articles were selected and appraised for quality using JBI appraisal tools. These articles represented studies from 14 countries. Relevant Government and voluntary sector organisation websites were also considered. Findings showed widespread experiences of isolation and exclusion among people with VI, but subjective experiences of loneliness did not necessarily align with this. Further research is needed to gain a better understanding of the relationship between VI and loneliness and experiences of loneliness for people with VI within both LGBTQ+ communities and within Black, Asian, and Ethnically Minoritised communities, where research remains notably scant. Studies about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic showed its heightened effect on isolation and loneliness among the VI community. Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects of this. While technology holds promise in mitigating loneliness and isolation among individuals with VI, accessibility issues persist. Future research is needed to understand how technology-based interventions might address loneliness and isolation for individuals with VI and the accessibility barriers associated with the implementation of these. For loneliness and isolation to be minimised, recognising the diversity within the VI population is imperative for tailoring interventions and initiatives effectively.