A pilot randomised controlled trial of Problem-Solving Treatment for Visual Impairment (POSITIVE): protocol paper

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Psychology
• Rehabilitation

Background:

• Visual impairment significantly impacts an individual's motivation, emotional state, and overall functioning.
• Loss of confidence following diagnosis can hinder progress and adaptation to vision loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of Problem-Solving Treatment (PST) in enhancing psychological well-being among individuals recently diagnosed with blindness or partial sight loss.
• To assess PST's impact on confidence and motivation in adapting to vision impairment.

Main Methods:

• A pilot randomized controlled trial involving 120 participants with recent severe, irreversible sight loss or registration as blind/partially sighted.
• Participants were randomly allocated to receive either Problem-Solving Treatment or routine care, stratified by vision loss severity.
• Problem-Solving Treatment involved structured tasks to address confidence, motivation, and problem resolution.

Main Results:

• The primary outcome is psychological well-being, measured at 3, 6, and 9 months post-intervention.
• Secondary outcomes include changes in distress symptoms, mobility, and quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Problem-Solving Treatment shows potential as a brief psychological intervention for improving well-being in newly diagnosed visually impaired individuals.
• Further research is warranted to confirm the long-term benefits of PST on adaptation and functioning in this population.