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Updated: May 29, 2026
A Standardized Obstacle Course for Assessment of Visual Function in Ultra Low Vision and Artificial Vision
Published on: February 11, 2014
Self-reported vision impairment and its contribution to disability among older adults
Bernard A Steinman1, Susan M Allen
1Brown University, Providence, RI, USA. bernard_steinman@brown.edu
Objective:
To examine contributions of self-reported vision impairment to disability by persons 65 years and older.
Method:
We used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES IV; 1999-2008; weighted N = 6,550). The four-staged Nagi model of the disability process, incorporating biomarkers, disease, and physical functioning, was used as a framework to guide variable selection. An unadjusted ordinal logistic regression model testing effects of vision on daily-life activities was compared with models that controlled covariates associated with each stage of the disability model.
Results:
Where significant effects of poor vision remained, the strongest effect was found for doing leisure activities at home (OR = 5.29; 95% CI [3.14, 8.90]).
Discussion:
Results suggest the importance of considering multiple health factors when formulating comprehensive vision rehabilitation interventions.
