Four different types of client attitudes towards purchasing spectacles in optometric practice

Area of Science:

• Optometry
• Ophthalmology
• Vision Science

Background:

• Unmet client expectations significantly impact satisfaction in optometry.
• Limited understanding exists regarding client expectations for eye examinations and spectacle purchases.
• This study investigates attitudes and behaviors of presbyope clients in optometric practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and characterize client expectations and health values in optometry.
• To explore attitudes and behaviors related to eye examinations and spectacle acquisition among presbyopes.
• To inform optometric practice by understanding diverse client needs.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire based on the theory of planned behavior was administered to 158 presbyope clients across 14 practices.
• The survey assessed attitudes towards spectacles and optician visits, motivation, perceived barriers, information needs, and shared decision-making preferences.
• Principal components analysis was employed for response analysis.

Main Results:

• Four key client factors were identified: Style (fashion and social approval), Vision (clear sight and eye health), Avoiding (difficulties with visits/purchases), and Seeking (technical lens information).
• These factors represent distinct clusters of client attitudes and motivations.
• Client motivations range from aesthetic concerns to practical needs for information.

Conclusions:

• Optometric practitioners can leverage these four identified factors to personalize client communication and service delivery.
• Tailoring information based on style, vision, avoiding, or seeking preferences can enhance relevance.
• Addressing individual client expectations proactively may lead to improved satisfaction and adherence to recommendations.