Visual Field Deficits After Eye Loss: What Do Monocular Patients (Not) See?.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Prosthetics

Background:

• Monocularity, or vision in one eye, presents significant physical, visual, and emotional challenges for patients.
• Healthcare providers often lack a comprehensive understanding of these challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals with monocularity.
• To emphasize the crucial role of ocularists in patient adjustment and rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative review of patient experiences and ocularist interventions.
• Analysis of visual field maximization strategies with prosthetics and eyeglasses.
• Guideline development for monocular living support.

Main Results:

• Patients experience difficulties beyond mere vision loss, including social and psychological impacts.
• Ocularists are key in optimizing residual vision and adapting assistive devices.
• Practical advice for daily living significantly improves patient quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Ocularists are integral members of the healthcare team for patients with monocularity.
• Addressing both functional and emotional needs is vital for successful adaptation.
• Further education for healthcare providers on monocularity is recommended.