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Perspectives on low vision service in Canada: a pilot study.
Deborah Gold1, Biljana Zuvela, William G Hodge
1Canadian National Institute for the Blind, Toronto, ON. deborah.gold@cnib.ca
Summary
Vision rehabilitation services in Canada face challenges, including inconsistent referrals and high costs for low vision aids, impacting older adults. Further research is needed to address these gaps in care.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Current vision rehabilitation practices in Canada were reviewed.
- A pilot study explored issues from the perspectives of older adults and low vision service providers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the experiences and perspectives of older adults with vision impairments and low vision service providers in Canada.
- To identify challenges and disparities in vision rehabilitation care.
Main Methods:
- Telephone surveys were conducted with 30 adults aged 60+ with vision impairments.
- Mail questionnaires were sent to ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians.
- E-mail surveys were used for vision rehabilitation practitioners, nurses, ophthalmic technicians, and low vision aid providers.
Main Results:
- Ophthalmologists' referrals to low vision services are inconsistent and not always timely.
- Optometrists provide low vision services and aids, but high costs and inadequate training lead to noncompliance.
- Service provision is limited by costs exceeding compensation, with disparities in availability and funding between rural and urban areas and provinces.
Conclusions:
- An emergent theory on the consequences of lacking planning and standards for vision rehabilitation care is proposed.
- The study findings highlight the need for further research into improving vision rehabilitation services.