Vision Disorders, Cambridge Handbook of Psychology, Health and Medicine

Abstract: Vision disorders have a range of bio-psycho-social impacts, with visually impaired individuals reporting poorer quality of life outcomes at all ages. Occurrence of visual impairment is highest in later life with older people reporting more loneliness, depression, and poorer health outcomes than those without visual impairment. The use of pro-active problem-solving coping strategies is associated with better psychological and functional health outcomes for older people with visual impairment.
Prevalence of specific vision disorders varies across the lifespan. The most common vision disorder in childhood is amblyopia and treatment is vital at a young age to prevent severe long-term impairment. However, compliance to Amblyopia treatment can be poor and an exploration of the most effective strategies to enhance compliance is needed. The most prevalent condition in older people is age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Diagnosis with AMD can lead to challenges with adaptation, independence and fears about the future. Evidence suggests that current approaches to information provision regarding diagnosis and treatment for AMD is inadequate and improvements in health care professional-patient communication are needed to improve healthcare experiences for these patients. Overall, more information and support is needed to help individuals with visual impairment to make informed decisions about their treatment.