Factors associated with patient preference of optical low vision devices in North West Nigeria.

Abstract

Purpose: The study was conducted to identify factors associated with patients’ preferences with optical low vision devices in North West Nigeria.
 Methods: A mixed method study approach was adopted for this study. The study sample consisted of 219 patients seen over a 5-year period (2010-2015) who received optical low vision devices at the Low Vision Clinic of Health and Development Support Programme (HANDS), Jigawa State, Nigeria. In-depth interviews with 9 Low vision optometrists practicing in North Western Nigeria were also conducted. Data were summarized and presented in tables and figures. Chi square test statistics was used to test for association between categorical variables @ 95% confidence interval.
 Results: The mean age of the 219 records of low vision patients reviewed was 45.28 20.22 and 162 (74%) were males. Age and occupation had statistically significant association with use of magnifiers (χ2=15.201,P=0.004 and χ2=29.261, P=0.001, respectively). Patients between 30 and 59 years preferred spectacle magnifiers while younger patients (<30 years) preferred stand magnifiers. A statistically significant association was found between the younger age group (χ2=12.127, P=0.002), students (χ2=13.517, P= 0.004) and telescope use. Results from the key informant interview showed that age, cosmetic appeal and ease of use were considered major factors to patient preference of optical low vision devices.
 Conclusion: Age and occupation were the only demographic factors significantly associated with patient preference with optical low vision devices. Information from this study would be of benefit to low vision practitioners in the stocking and cost effective management of low vision patients.