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Tool for Screening Visual Acuity in Older Individuals With Dementia
Hélène Kergoat1,2, Caroline Law1,2, Estefania Chriqui1,2
11 École d'optométrie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
American Journal of Alzheimer'S Disease and Other Dementias
|January 25, 2017
Summary
A new iPad-based screening tool effectively identifies older adults with dementia who require eye examinations. This visual acuity (VA) test demonstrated high accuracy, aiding in timely referrals for essential vision care.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Geriatrics
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Older institutionalized individuals with dementia often have undiagnosed vision impairments.
- Regular eye examinations are crucial for maintaining the quality of life and functional independence in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a screening and referral algorithm tool for identifying older institutionalized individuals with dementia who need an eye examination.
Main Methods:
- A visual acuity (VA) screening test was developed using an iPad retina display with letter, number, and tumbling E optotypes.
- The screening tool's performance was validated against a complete eye examination conducted by an optometrist.
Main Results:
- Letters were found to be the superior optotype for VA screening in this population.
- The screening tool achieved >80% concordance for VA and 90% for the algorithm decision when compared to a comprehensive eye examination.
Conclusions:
- The developed tool is successful in identifying older individuals with dementia who require an eye examination.
- This algorithm can facilitate timely referrals and improve access to vision care for institutionalized elderly patients with cognitive impairment.
