ABSTRACT
For many older adults facing visual loss, the frustration and distress that makes life's activities difficult or impossible may lead to clinically significant emotional problems. Patients may feel a loss of independence and control, poor self-esteem, and strained social relationships. Clinically, the most common emotional problems related to vision loss are adjustment disorder and major depressive episode. For patients with adjustment disorder, counseling or psychotherapy is recommended for both the patient and family members. Patients with major depression must be evaluated and referred for more in-depth psychiatric evaluation and treatment. Resolution of these disorders is important before a patient can pursue adequate rehabilitation.
Subject(s)
Emotions , Vision Disorders/psychology , Vision Disorders/rehabilitation , Adaptation, Psychological , Adjustment Disorders/etiology , Adjustment Disorders/rehabilitation , Aged , Depressive Disorder/etiology , Depressive Disorder/rehabilitation , Female , Humans , Psychosocial Deprivation , Vision Disorders/complicationsABSTRACT
This review is a highly selective and personal viewpoint regarding the past year's publications in low vision clinical practice and clinical research. This article reviews and provides references on selected aspects of low vision technology, reading, pediatric considerations, visual assessment for the multiply handicapped, and the psychosocial aspects of low vision and rehabilitation. We are impressed that the wealth of current publications underscores that this is an important, productive, and growing area of research and clinical activity.
