[Assessment of visual functions within the sensory domain of intrinsic capacity in older adults]

Intrinsic capacity and quality of life of older adults are determined by many factors, including the functional state of the organ of vision.

This study assessed the visual functions of elderly residents of Northern European Russia and examined the relationship between visual impairment and sociodemographic characteristics, ophthalmic conditions, and preservation of work capacity and social functions.

This cross-sectional study included a random population sample of older adults (ages 60-74) from Arkhangelsk, Russia (n=604). Standard ophthalmological examinations were performed, with diagnoses classified according to ICD-10. Data on participants' subjective assessment of visual function and sociodemographic characteristics were collected through standardized survey interviews.

The study found that visual acuity in the 60-74 age group is considered low if best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in the better-seeing eye is 0.7 or lower (<10th percentile), below average at 0.8 (25th percentile), and average at 0.9-1.0 (>25th percentile). Only 33 participants (5.5%) had vision not requiring correction, defined as uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) ≥0.9 in both eyes.

Based on BCVA and UCVA data, a five-point Visual Function Scale (VFS) was proposed for this age group. The main contributor to visual decline among individuals aged 60-74 was age-related cataract. Low VFS scores were associated with reduced social functionality in older adults. The proposed VFS may serve as an objective tool in geriatric practice to assess the functional status of older adults.