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Life space limitations in visually impaired older adults
Ava K Bittner, Micaela Gobeille1, Alexis G Malkin1
1New England College of Optometry, Boston, Massachusetts.
Summary
Visually impaired seniors experience life space restrictions due to vision, race, and health. Loneliness increases when mobility is limited, highlighting the need for interventions to improve travel and reduce isolation.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
Background:
- Life space, the area a person travels, can be restricted for visually impaired seniors.
- Understanding factors influencing life space is crucial for maintaining independence and well-being in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the relationship between demographics, vision, and health characteristics and restricted life space in visually impaired seniors.
- To identify factors associated with limited travel range among older adults with vision impairment.
Main Methods:
- 114 visually impaired participants (≥55 years) used iPhone apps and completed questionnaires on life space, health, loneliness, and self-efficacy.
- Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to assess associations between life space and patient factors.
Main Results:
- 17-70% of participants had not left their town, county, or state within the past/future 3 months.
- Reduced visual acuity, minority race, and increased loneliness were associated with greater life space restrictions.
- Increased self-efficacy and better physical function were linked to reduced life space restrictions.
Conclusions:
- Demographic, vision, and health factors significantly impact life space for visually impaired seniors.
- Loneliness is more prevalent in seniors with restricted life space, underscoring the need for targeted support.
- Interventions should address visual and health barriers to travel and mitigate loneliness in this population.
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