OBJECTIVE: To explore the needs of individuals with low vision in order to inform the contents of a low vision self-management (SM) program and determine potential barriers to participation. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 48 participants with low vision resulting different from eye conditions. Qualitative analysis was conducted in order to identify major themes. RESULTS: All participants described a range of consequences as a result of vision loss including difficulties with functional activities, social interaction and emotional distress. Less than half were interested in attending a SM program. Barriers included practical reasons as well as a perceived lack of need and unclear or negative perceptions of such a program. CONCLUSION: SM programs for low vision are a promising way to help address the range of difficulties experienced by this population if barriers to participation can be overcome. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: SM programs should include vision-specific strategies, training in generic problem-solving and goal setting skills and how to cope with emotional reactions to vision impairment. Programs should be delivered and promoted in such a way to enhance access and encourage uptake by those with a range of vision loss in the community.
OBJECTIVE: To explore the needs of individuals with low vision in order to inform the contents of a low vision self-management (SM) program and determine potential barriers to participation. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 48 participants with low vision resulting different from eye conditions. Qualitative analysis was conducted in order to identify major themes. RESULTS: All participants described a range of consequences as a result of vision loss including difficulties with functional activities, social interaction and emotional distress. Less than half were interested in attending a SM program. Barriers included practical reasons as well as a perceived lack of need and unclear or negative perceptions of such a program. CONCLUSION: SM programs for low vision are a promising way to help address the range of difficulties experienced by this population if barriers to participation can be overcome. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: SM programs should include vision-specific strategies, training in generic problem-solving and goal setting skills and how to cope with emotional reactions to vision impairment. Programs should be delivered and promoted in such a way to enhance access and encourage uptake by those with a range of vision loss in the community.
Authors: Judith Ballemans; G A Rixt Zijlstra; Ger H M B van Rens; Jan S A G Schouten; Gertrudis I J M Kempen Journal: BMC Health Serv Res Date: 2012-06-08 Impact factor: 2.655
Authors: Janna E Bruijning; Ger van Rens; Mark Fick; Dirk L Knol; Ruth van Nispen Journal: Health Qual Life Outcomes Date: 2014-12-24 Impact factor: 3.186
Authors: Hilde P A van der Aa; Ger H M B van Rens; Hannie C Comijs; Judith E Bosmans; Tom H Margrain; Ruth M A van Nispen Journal: BMC Psychiatry Date: 2013-08-09 Impact factor: 3.630