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Visual Function, Physical Function, and Activities of Daily Living in Two Aging Communities
Xinxing Guo1, Lubaina T Arsiwala1, Yanan Dong2
1Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Translational Vision Science & Technology
|December 16, 2021
Summary
Visual acuity impairment (VAI) and contrast sensitivity impairment (CSI) are linked to poorer physical health in older adults. Community factors may influence these associations, highlighting the need for public health interventions.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
Background:
- Vision impairment, including visual acuity impairment (VAI) and contrast sensitivity impairment (CSI), is prevalent in aging populations.
- Understanding the impact of VAI and CSI on physical health is crucial for targeted interventions in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution of VAI and CSI.
- To examine the associations between VAI and CSI with various physical health outcomes in an aging population.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional analysis of VAI and CSI categories (mild, moderate, severe/profound).
- Assessment of physical outcomes: Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) scores, Quality of Life (QoL), physical limitations, and difficulties with Activities of Daily Living (ADL/IADL).
- Exploration of associations overall and stratified by community.
Main Results:
- Moderate or greater near VAI was associated with increased physical limitations and IADL difficulties.
- Distance VAI correlated with physical limitations and lower SPPB scores.
- CSI was linked to physical limitations, IADL difficulties, lower QoL, and lower SPPB scores.
- Associations were stronger in the Jackson community.
Conclusions:
- VAI and CSI are significantly associated with poorer physical health outcomes in older adults.
- Community-specific factors may modulate the impact of vision impairment on physical health.
- Public health initiatives addressing VAI and CSI are necessary to improve physical well-being in elderly individuals with vision loss.
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