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Functional visual problems: training home care aides to identify early signs.
K E Phillips1, S M Russello, J Bonesi
1Lighthouse, Inc., Staten Island, NY, USA.
Caring : National Association for Home Care Magazine
|July 6, 1997
Summary
Home care aides received training to better assist elderly clients with vision loss. This program improved their awareness and established referrals for essential eye care and vision rehabilitation services.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Geriatrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Home care aides provide essential support to frail elderly individuals.
- Vision loss significantly contributes to health decline in older adults.
- Existing support systems often lack specialized training for vision impairment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance home care aides' understanding of vision impairment challenges.
- To improve the referral process for vision rehabilitation services.
- To foster collaboration between home care and vision specialists.
Main Methods:
- A collaborative training program was designed by a vision rehabilitation service and a home care agency.
- The curriculum focused on increasing aides' sensitivity to visual impairment issues.
- A structured referral system for eye care was implemented.
Main Results:
- Aides demonstrated increased awareness and sensitivity towards clients with vision loss.
- The established referral system facilitated access to necessary eye care.
- Improved client outcomes are anticipated due to timely interventions.
Conclusions:
- Training home care aides is effective in addressing vision impairment in the elderly.
- Integrated care models improve access to specialized services.
- Enhanced support for visually impaired elders can be achieved through targeted training and referrals.