Delivering problem-solving treatment in low-vision rehabilitation: A pilot feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Psychiatry
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Depressive symptoms are common among adults receiving low-vision rehabilitation (LVR).
• Existing LVR services may not adequately address the mental health needs of clients.
• Problem-Solving Treatment for Primary Care (PST-PC) is a recognized intervention for depression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of LVR practitioners delivering PST-PC via telephone.
• To evaluate the preliminary effectiveness of telephone-delivered PST-PC on depressive symptoms.
• To examine the impact on health-related quality of life and coping self-efficacy.

Main Methods:

• A single-group pre/postintervention study design.
• Eighteen adult LVR clients with depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥ 5) received 6-8 weekly telephone PST-PC sessions.
• Feasibility assessed by recruitment/retention rates; effectiveness measured by pre/post assessments of depression, HRQoL, and coping self-efficacy.

Main Results:

• Client recruitment and retention rates were 71% and 40%, respectively.
• Seventy percent of practitioners completed training with satisfactory fidelity and competency.
• Significant postintervention improvements observed: 53% in depressive symptoms (p < .001), 23% in HRQoL (p = .001), and 18% in coping self-efficacy (p = .001).

Conclusions:

• Telephone-delivered PST-PC by trained LVR practitioners appears feasible and effective for LVR clients with depressive symptoms.
• Findings suggest a potential for integrated mental health support within LVR services.
• A randomized controlled trial is recommended to confirm these preliminary results and assess long-term effectiveness.