Quality of Life Among Patients with Impaired Vision

Abstract

Introduction: Individuals with impaired vision often experience stress that can lead to psychological, physical, and psychosocial effects. It has a significant impact on quality of life (QOL). The objective of the study was to assess QOL among patients with impaired vision, visiting the Department of Ophthalmology, of Tertiary Care Hospital, Vellore. Methods: A quantitative descriptive study design was utilized; consecutive sampling technique was used. After written informed consent was taken, 200 subjects were recruited for the study. Data was collected using Visual Functioning Questionnaire-25 (VFQ-25). Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. Result: The findings revealed more than half of them had poor QOL. There was a significant association between educational level (p = 0.004), employment status (p = 0.013), monthly income (p = 0.002), and availing government benefits (p = 0.017) with QOL of Visually impaired. The study demonstrated that people with impaired vision faced challenges in maintaining the quality of life. Education, Counselling, and Rehabilitation can address the needs and bring a better outcome in their lives. Keywords: Visual impairment, Quality of life.